This Friday night, French Zouk sensation, Slaï, real name Patrice Sylvestre returns to Kigali for a concert dubbed Zouk Love Party, at Cadillac night club. The Zouk Love Party is the first live music concert featuring an international act since the club opened its doors to the public in December last year. Slaï is best known for French Zouk ballads like Autour de toi, Flame, Caresse, and Ce soir. Born in 1973 in France, he traces his roots to Guadeloupe, a cluster of islands in the Southern Caribbean Sea. It is here that he first came in contact with the West Indian musical culture, which later influenced his foray into Zouk music. The 36- year- old has released a string of studio albums since his debut album, Fresh dropped in 1998, including the self-titled Slai (2002), Frolilege (2004), Caraibes (2008), and Escale (2011). This will be the second time that Slaï, will be performing in Rwanda, having staged his maiden performance as a headline act at the February edition of the Kigali Jazz Junction. At a press conference prior to that performance, a visibly overjoyed Slaï, remarked: “I appreciate this country because there is something strong about its people. We all know the story of Rwanda, but what is important in life is the way you bounce back after a setback. It’s wonderful for future generations, and it’s something that I appreciate a lot”. Slaï was the first French musician to grace the Kigali Jazz Junction stage, following overwhelming requests from fans. The well-attended concert was yet more proof of the thirst for Francophone musicians on Kigali’s concert scene. Slaï will be backed on stage by a local jazz band. Tickets to the concert go for Rwf 10,000 (ordinary) Rwf 15,000 (VIP), while a table for six will go for Rwf 250,000. For Rwf 20,000, guests will also be able to partake of the buffet that will be served up on the night. Sales points for tickets are; Cadillac Nightclub, Cocobean Bar and Night Club, and Coconut Garden in Kacyiru. editor@newtimesrwanda.com
