The United Kingdom’s leading ABBA tribute band, ABBA Re-Björn, made a spectacular debut in Kampala with a two-day performance that had the city dancing to timeless hits. The concert, held on September 6 and 7 at Somewhere Else Bar and Restaurant in Naguru, was sponsored by I&M Bank and Uganda Breweries Limited, featuring their Gordon’s Gin and Tanqueray brands.
Hosted by TV personality Dagy Nyce, the event featured a thrilling mix of classic pop, disco, and retro hits from the ‘70s and ‘80s, setting the perfect atmosphere for the headline performances. The playlist included names like Boney M, Commodores, Billy Ocean, Kool & The Gang, Madonna, Billy Vera, Ace of Base, Michael Jackson, and the like, that warmed up revelers on day one.
The second day brought a blend of old-school hip-hop, RnB, calypso, and a touch of Amapiano, maintaining the excitement. Each night at exactly 9:25 PM, the band took the stage dressed in ABBA-inspired costumes and kicked off with the 1979 ABBA classic Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!. The hit, which topped charts in several European countries, was followed by other fan-favorites, Super Trouper, with the band pulling off flawless retro dance moves.
The venue’s setup added to the nostalgic vibe, with an open space for dancing and disco balls enhancing the retro theme. The band performed a range of ABBA classics, including Knowing Me, Knowing You, Voulez-Vous, Take a Chance on Me, Mamma Mia, Dancing Queen, Chiquitita, and Fernando, to the delight of the audience.
ABBA Re-Björn made the event even more memorable by interacting with the crowd, celebrating birthdays, and taking selfies with fans after their Saturday performance. The audience, many dressed in ABBA-inspired outfits like groovy suits, bellbottom jeans, and disco-ready spandex catsuits, was fully engaged and ready for an unforgettable party.
A standout moment was when I&M Bank CEO, Robin Bairstow, who attended both nights, led revelers onto the dance floor, showing off some rare dance moves.
Racheal Kulanyi, Communications and Outreach Officer at I&M Bank Uganda, expressed the bank’s pride in offering its clients an exclusive experience. “We are thrilled to have been part of an event that provided our customers with an unforgettable experience. The 10% discount on tickets for I&M Mastercard holders was one of the many perks we offered to enhance their enjoyment,” she said.
Uganda Breweries Limited also ensured attendees had a variety of drinks to choose from, with a special focus on expertly crafted cocktails featuring Gordon’s Gin and Tanqueray.
ABBA Re-Björn, made up of members Sam, Kelly, Toby, and Marcus, is a full-time professional ABBA tribute band that has toured across the globe. Their Kampala performance left a lasting impression on the city, bringing together fans of all ages for two nights of pure ABBA magic.