White, khaki, denim and coffee brown set the tone at Masheda Palms in Buyala over the weekend, as Old School RnB and Friends took its familiar blend of music, fashion and nostalgia beyond Kampala for the first time.
Supported by Baileys and Tusker Cider, the Independence weekend special offered a change of scenery for a party whose appeal lies in bringing people together over the music they grew up listening to. Hosted by Derrick Dash, the afternoon drew a sizeable crowd by midday. Revellers arrived ready to catch up, take selfies and settle into the leisurely pace of a gathering that felt more like a weekend escape than an ordinary party.
But once the DJs took over, the afternoon became a celebration of songs that have outlived their original moment. DJ Anselm was at the heart of the sing-alongs, drawing from the late 1990s and 2000s, when RnB dominated radio playlists and house parties.
These were familiar songs that needed little introduction. A few opening notes were enough to get people singing, often remembering lyrics they had not consciously revisited in years. DJ Bryan brought the house down with favourite Ugandan classics, reminding revellers that nostalgia was not exclusively an international affair.
His selections gave local music its moment in a playlist that moved between different eras and sounds. DJ Maintain, meanwhile, capitalised on the golden years of American RnB, playing music from Mya, Jennifer Lopez and Destiny’s Child, alongside groups such as Blackstreet and Next.
DJ Nyowe took a different approach, becoming the dance architect as the afternoon moved into the party-rock mood of the early 2010s. His selections shifted the energy from sentimental sing-alongs to a livelier dance-floor experience.
Crysto the DJ and DJ Wil also formed part of the lineup, contributing to a musical journey that stretched across generations. From the Motown era, with Diana Ross and Marvin Gaye, to the harmonies of Boyz II Men and Beyoncé’s early hits, including “Baby Boy” featuring Sean Paul, the playlist offered something for different musical memories.
For many, however, the biggest attraction was not simply the music but the opportunity to share it with friends.
“We came for the vibes, but the sing-alongs are what make these events special,” said Alice, one of the revellers. Another attendee said contemporary music did not always evoke the same emotional connection, explaining why she continued to attend RnB-themed gatherings.
Beyond the music, Baileys and Tusker Cider introduced guests to cocktails, drink combinations and different ways to enjoy the brands. It was an experience built around food, discovery and the pleasure of spending an afternoon together.
Simon Lapyem, brand manager for Baileys and Tusker Cider, said such gatherings offer an opportunity to connect the brands with shared experiences while introducing consumers to different ways of enjoying the brands.