Azawi
As the clock struck midnight, signaling the beginning of a new year, musician Azawi took to the stage at Mestil Hotel Kampala, dressed in a stunning African Ankara outfit. Backed by the talented Double Black band, she kicked off her performance with her 2021 hit track “My Year” from her Deluxe album.
However, Azawi put a twist on the song’s lyrics, dedicating the year to the audience instead of herself. “Somebody is going to get married this year, somebody is going to get a job this year, somebody is going to get blessings this year,” she sang, getting the crowd excited and hopeful for the new year.
Azawi’s high-energy performance included hits like “Lo Fit,” “Omwenge,” “Fwa Fwa,” “Slow Dancing,” “Quinamino,” “Bamutute,” “Majje,” and “Masavu.” But it was her collaboration with Jamaican artist Konshens, “Summer Bae,” that stole the show. Azawi’s versatility shone through as she seamlessly mixed in Konshens’ verse from his song “Couple Up” before returning to “Summer Bae.”
The crowd was wowed by Azawi’s performance, and they eagerly awaited the next act. Winnie Nwagi took to the stage, dressed in denim shorts and boots, and delivered a powerful performance of her hits, including “Matala,” “Onsonsomola,” “Magic,” “Show Me,” and “Musawo.”
Elijah Kitaka, another Swangz Avenue artist, closed out the night with a performance that started past 2 am. Although some revelers had retired to their rooms or were feeling the effects of a long night, those who remained enjoyed Kitaka’s set, particularly his hit song “Dawa.”
Iryn Namubiru had kicked off the performances earlier in the night with a pre-recorded set, taking to the stage at 11:15 pm with hits like “Begombeko,” “Kabi Ki,” “Nkwagala Nyo,” “Tebiba Bingi,” “Birowozo,” and “Kawowo.” DJ Marcus kept the crowd entertained throughout the night, spinning great mixes during every interval and ushering revelers into the new year.
