Legendary American R&B group Shalamar will headline a spectacular concert in Abuja on October 4, coinciding with Nigeria’s 65th Independence day celebrations.
The show, billed for the International Conference Centre, Abuja, promises a night of nostalgia and high-energy performances from the Grammy-winning trio.
Organised by iCreate Africa in partnership with First Culture Limited, the highly anticipated event will showcase Shalamar’s timeless repertoire, appealing to long-time fans and a new generation of music lovers alike.
The group, famous for classics such as A Night to Remember and I Can Make You Feel Good, has sold more than 25 million records worldwide and remains one of the most influential funk and soul acts of their era.
Highlighting the importance of the concert, Bright Jaja, Chief Executive Officer of iCreate Africa, described Shalamar’s return to Nigeria as a significant cultural milestone.
“We’re excited to host Shalamar in Abuja this Independence Weekend. Their decision to include Nigeria in their global tour is not just an honour but also a long-awaited gift to a vibrant community of music lovers who have sustained their legacy for decades,” Jaja said.
He added that the event would create unique experiences for mature audiences often overlooked in the entertainment space. Tickets are currently available at Jabi Boat Club, El-Amin International School, House 43 and Istanbul Restaurant, Jabi Mall.
Tunde Babalola, Creative Director of First Culture, emphasised that the concert goes beyond entertainment. “This isn’t just a show; it’s a gift to all generations a musical bridge between the past and the present,” he noted.
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In a video message, members Howard Hewett, Carolyn Griffey and Jeffrey Daniel expressed delight at returning to Nigeria. Daniel who introduced the “backslide” dance move later popularised as the moonwalk assured fans the performance would indeed be “a night to remember.”
Known for their dynamic stage presence and for popularising dance styles such as body-popping in the UK, Shalamar’s influence continues to resonate decades after their peak years. Their catalogue includes hits like Friends, Make That Move, Sweeter As The Days Go By, There It Is and I Owe You One.
This will be the group’s second appearance in Nigeria, following their 1982 tour which saw sold-out shows at the National Arts Theatre, University of Lagos, University of Ibadan and then University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University).
As Nigeria commemorates 65 years of independence, Shalamar’s return promises an evening of pulsating live music and cherished memories for lovers of old-school sounds.
