Kenyan singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Bensoul is set to headline the upcoming edition of Strictly Soul in Kigali as Africa’s biggest R&B experience returns for another night of music, culture and entertainment.
The show will take place on May 29 at the rooftop venue of Kigali Convention Centre.
Organisers say this edition promises a bigger and more immersive experience for R&B lovers, blending soulful music, energetic live performances and the vibrant atmosphere that has helped make Strictly Soul one of Africa’s most celebrated nightlife experiences.
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Returning to Kigali for the seventh time, the event continues to grow in popularity among Rwanda’s young music fans and nightlife enthusiasts.
Born Benson Mutua Muia, Bensoul is widely regarded as one of Kenya’s leading soulful artistes. He rose to prominence after becoming the first musician signed to Sol Generation Records, the label founded by the award-winning Kenyan group Sauti Sol.
Over the years, the singer has built a loyal fan base across East Africa through his unique fusion of Afropop, soulful R&B and reggae-inspired sounds.
Some of his most popular songs include Lucy, Favorite Song, Extravaganza, Nairobi, Extra Pressure and Utaambia Nini Watu — tracks that have accumulated millions of streams across digital platforms and established him as a household name among African music lovers.
Bensoul is also renowned for his captivating live performances and emotional storytelling, qualities organisers believe perfectly align with the Strictly Soul experience.
The show will mark his return to Kigali following his 2025 appearance as headliner of the high-profile World Champs Night Life Concert.
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A growing African R&B movement
According to organisers, the Kigali edition will also feature performances from local DJs alongside Akio Kawahito, the global DJ and founder of Strictly Soul.
Akio has played a major role in transforming Strictly Soul from a simple party concept into a continental cultural movement centred around R&B music, nostalgia and community connection.
The event series has built a loyal following across several African and international cities by creating spaces where audiences can enjoy classic R&B hits, modern favourites and sing-along anthems in a premium nightlife setting.
Organisers say bringing artistes from different African countries into new markets remains part of Strictly Soul’s broader mission of connecting cultures through music while celebrating African talent.
"Kigali continues to be an important stop in the Strictly Soul journey because audiences here have consistently embraced the intimate but electric atmosphere the event offers,” organisers noted.
Guests attending this year’s edition can expect an evening filled with soulful classics, smooth slow jams, immersive DJ sets and high-energy crowd moments.
The rooftop setting at the Kigali Convention Centre is expected to provide a unique backdrop for the event, which has become known for blending music, fashion, nightlife and social connection into one memorable experience.
Music lovers can also explore mixes and curated playlists through the brand’s official platforms, including the Strictly Soul YouTube channel and Strictly Soul Spotify playlist.