To say those who missed the Independence Day edition of Strictly Soul at Mestil Hotel missed out would be an understatement. The iconic R&B experience returned to Kampala in spectacular fashion on the eve of Uganda’s 63rd Independence Day, delivering not just soulful nostalgia but also the official Ugandan debut of the newest member of the Johnnie Walker family — Johnnie Walker Blonde.
After a brief hiatus, Africa’s biggest R&B party made its grand comeback on Wednesday, October 8th, with Johnnie Walker as the headline beverage partner. The night pulsed with rhythm, flavour, and a refreshing new twist — courtesy of Blonde, a playful whisky crafted specifically for mixing and vibrant cocktails.
Nicknamed “Sunshine in a Bottle,” Johnnie Walker Blonde is bright, smooth, and irresistibly easy to enjoy. Designed for lively gatherings, it teases the palate with hints of sweet vanilla, apple, and caramel, best enjoyed with a splash of lemonade for that summery, easygoing vibe. At Mestil, that sunshine flowed straight into the dance floor — from the first sip to the last beat.
The DJ lineup was simply one for the books. Jerry Mehn, Heydez, and Jefas took revellers on an electrifying ride through the decades of R&B, mixing 90s classics from TLC and Beyoncé with today’s chart-toppers like Summer Walker and Chris Brown. Then came DJ Akio, the Strictly Soul resident maestro, who lit up the night with his signature blend of groove and nostalgia. Even Lilian Mbabazi’s soulful anthem “Ddagala” made a surprise debut, sealing the night with a proudly Ugandan touch.
According to Christine Kyokunda, Brand Manager for Johnnie Walker Uganda, Strictly Soul was the perfect stage to introduce Blonde to Ugandan audiences.
“Strictly Soul takes guests on a flavourful musical journey, blending old-school hits with the new — and that’s the exact kind of energy that comes with Blonde: fresh, bright, and made for good times,” she said. “It’s our sunshine in a bottle, perfect for occasions like this. With just a simple mix with lemonade, you’re good to go.”
From the music to the cocktails and the electric atmosphere, this Independence edition of Strictly Soul was everything a great night should be — vibrant, carefree, and full of unforgettable moments. Johnnie Walker Blonde didn’t just add flavour to the event; it set the tone for a new era of good times and bright spirits.
So, if you missed it, consider this your memo: when you see the Blonde next time, don’t stay on the sidelines. Step into the mix, raise your glass, and take a sip of sunshine — because with Johnnie Walker Blonde, the party doesn’t just start, it shines.
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