Abuja: Shalamar, the Grammy-winning American R and B vocal group, is set to excite fans and old-school music enthusiasts at a historic concert in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory on October 4.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, this concert, which will be held at the International Conference Centre, is part of the celebrations marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day weekend. The event is promoted by Abuja-based event organiser, iCreate Africa, in collaboration with First Culture Ltd.
The legendary group, known for their extensive repertoire of hit songs such as “A Night to Remember” and “I Can Make You Feel Good,” is prepared to deliver a nostalgic performance. Bright Jaja, the Chief Executive Officer of iCreate Africa, emphasized the significance of the concert, noting that it promises to be a music-filled journey down memory lane. He highlighted that the event will feature all of Shalamar’s classic hits, backed by a seven-piece live band. Tickets for the much-anticipated concert are currently available at Jabi Boat Club and Dunes Supermarket in Abuja.
Tunde Babalola, Creative Director and spokesperson for First Culture, remarked that the concert is more than just a musical event; it is a gift to all generations. He described it as a musical bridge between the past and present, offering a rare opportunity to experience a Shalamar performance designed to evoke nostalgia and excitement. In a video message, Shalamar members Howard Hewett, Carolyn Griffey, and Jeffrey Daniel expressed their excitement about returning to Nigeria for the event. Jeffrey Daniel, known for pioneering the iconic “backslide” dance move, assured fans that the concert would indeed be “a night to remember.”
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Shalamar is celebrated for their energetic performances and significant contributions to dance music, including popularising “body-popping” in the UK. With over 25 million records sold, the group is recognized as one of the best funk and soul groups of their generation. Since reforming in 2001, the trio of Howard, Jeffrey, and Carolyn have been performing live, reinvigorating audiences worldwide with their vibrant shows.
The Abuja concert marks the group’s return to Nigeria over four decades after their last performances in the country, which included four sold-out shows in January 1982 across various venues in South-West Nigeria. As the nation celebrates its 65th independence anniversary, Shalamar’s return is set to provide fans with an unforgettable experience, filled with their chart-topping classics and electrifying live performances.