Iconic American R&B and funk group Shalamar is poised to captivate Abuja’s music enthusiasts with a spectacular concert on October 4, celebrating Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day weekend.
The event, set to take place at the International Conference Centre, promises an unforgettable evening filled with timeless hits, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Organized by iCreate Africa in partnership with First Culture Ltd., the concert will feature Shalamar’s classic tracks like “A Night to Remember” and “I Can Make You Feel Good,” performed with a dynamic seven-piece live band. Bright Jaja, CEO of iCreate Africa, shared his excitement: “Abuja, brace yourselves for a nostalgic journey.
Shalamar’s music, which shaped a generation, will bring back memories with their electrifying performance.”
Tickets for the much-anticipated event are available at Jabi Boat Club and Dunes Supermarket in Abuja.
Creative Director at First Culture, Tunde Babalola, emphasized the concert’s significance: “This is more than a show; it’s a celebration of music that connects generations, delivering thrills and nostalgia in equal measure.”
In a video message, Shalamar members Howard Hewett, Carolyn Griffey, and Jeffrey Daniel expressed their eagerness to perform in Nigeria again.
Daniel, credited with pioneering the “backslide” (popularly known as the Moonwalk), promised fans “a night to remember” that will resonate with both longtime supporters and new listeners.
Shalamar, renowned for their vibrant performances and contributions to dance music, including popularizing “body-popping” in the UK, has sold over 25 million records worldwide.
The group, considered one of the finest funk and soul acts of their era, disbanded in the mid-1980s but reunited in 2001.
The current lineup of Hewett, Daniel, and Griffey continues to deliver high-energy shows globally, with hits like “Friends,” “Make That Move,” and “There It Is.”
This Abuja performance marks Shalamar’s return to Nigeria, over four decades after their legendary 1982 concerts in Lagos and the South-West, including sold-out shows at the National Arts Theatre, University of Lagos,
University of Ibadan, and the then University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University).
As Nigeria commemorates its 65th independence anniversary, Shalamar’s soulful rhythms and electrifying stage presence promise a nostalgic and thrilling experience for all. (NAN)
