Nigerian singer Timaya is set to arrive in the country Wednesday evening ahead of the return Kigali Jazz Junction (KJJ) scheduled for March 25.
The ‘Gra Gra’ singer is expected to touch down at Kigali International Airport at 9pm, three days ahead of the show, which will give him enough time to prepare and rehearse with the KJJ resident band, the Neptunez Band.
According to Remmygious Lubega of RG Consult, which organises what used to be a monthly musical show, relaunching it with Timaya at Canal Olympia will set the momentum for the showbiz industry and rekindle good memories for music lovers.
"We expect it to be a great show, bringing together all generations because Timaya has been at it for a while now, both young and old know him. We will also have Okkama, one of the most promising young artistes in Rwanda,”
"We will have talented upcoming singer Bwiza as a guest performer while the Neptunez Band has been working day and night to perfect the tunes. We really expect a spectacular show,” Lubega said.
Timaya, real name Inetimi Timaya Odon, has been one of the most consistent Nigerian artistes of the modern era, having broken out on the scene in 2005 and going on to establish himself as one of the leading Afro-dancehall singers on the continent.
The award-winning ‘Sexy Ladies’ singer will have a curtain raiser in Okkama, who is currently enjoying considerable success with his breakout hit songs ‘Iyallah’ and ‘Puculi’, turning him into a household name already.
The 20-year-old Okkama, otherwise known as Ossama Masut Khalid, has also released a song ‘Lotto’ with Kenny Sol, and he is already among the most sought-after young artistes with a unique style, despite having few songs.
Neptunez Band lasting through the hard times
Neptunez Band will yet again take to the stage, more than two years after their last appearance on the KJJ stage, backing up an artiste, having stood the test of time.
Formed in 2014 to provide a fusion of truly authentic local tunes with a global and golden touch, the band has been able to perform for all KJJ lead acts, proving that they can play any song from anywhere in the world.
They have performed on the same stage with many artistes including the legendary Oliver Mtukudzi from Zimbabwe, Waje from Nigeria, Mbilia Bel from DRC, Slai from France, Nigerian songbird Seyi Shay, Liliane Mbabazi, Isiah Katumwa, Kidumu, Bruce Melodie, Massamba Intore, Mani Martin, Teta Diana and many others.
Kinga Blues Band Debut
Unlike in the past, there will be a guest band performing at KJJ when it returns this Saturday. Kinga Blues Band will make their debut appearance at the show, led by the guitarist Nganji. The trio plays music is rooted in Blues and shades of rock and jazz, spiced with African rhythms. The band which has been performing from 2016 will use the platform to showcase what they are capable of.
Bwiza gets a platform
Up and coming female singer Emerance Bwiza will get her chance to shine appearing on the same stage with Timaya and Okkama, as she looks to take her singing talent to another level.
Bwiza, who was in the news again this year for registering to take part in Miss Rwanda 2022, has vowed to focus on her music, having given the Miss Rwanda crown twice but now her heart is more into music.
Come this Saturday, Bwiza will have the opportunity to prove that she made the right choice when she performs as a guest artiste at KJJ. Tickets are bought HERE.