Every day is a music day because music, much like art, is an integral part of life. Yet for one special day each year, the world unites to celebrate music in its most unorthodox and joyous forms. Last Friday, this celebration known as Fête de la Musique or World Music Day was observed with fervor and festivity, transforming ordinary spaces into stages for musical magic.
Fête de la Musique was first celebrated in Paris, France, in 1982, thanks to Maurice Fleuret, the then Director of Music and Dance at the French Ministry of Culture. Fleuret’s vision was inspired by a 1982 study revealing that five million French people, especially the youth, played musical instruments. His dream of bringing people out onto the streets to make music a public affair birthed this now global phenomenon.
The festival has grown exponentially, becoming an international celebration that transcends borders and cultures. In Uganda, Fête de la Musique has evolved in various forms over the years. This year, the celebrations took place at the Kampala Sheraton Hotel, courtesy of Alliance Française, offering a vibrant night of performances that stayed true to the spirit of the festival free, accessible, and participatory.
With a lineup featuring talents like Brian Alideki, Makadem, Joshua Baraka, and Azawi, the event promised an unforgettable evening. Unlike most local shows that often start late, this event took punctuality seriously, kicking off at 5 pm with engaging and interactive performances. The Nilotika Troupe set the tone with their immersive act, drawing the audience into a participatory musical experience.
Biya from Mbale captivated the crowd with her soulful and poetic style, reminiscent of Tshila but infused with the unique Masaba sounds. Alideki, a rising star known for his blend of Afro and Ethno pop, enchanted the audience with songs celebrating Africa and Uganda’s beauty. His hit “Mujje Tulambule,” initially performed on a music reality show promoting Uganda as a tourist destination, had the crowd singing along passionately.
Joshua Baraka, fresh from a European tour, delivered an energetic performance backed by Double Black, a band from Swangz Avenue. He showcased his versatility with hits like “Nana,” “Jolene,” and “Ninda,” proving that he’s far from a one-hit-wonder.
Kenyan fusion artist Makadem brought the house down with his dynamic performance, getting the audience to dance and sing along to songs they had never heard before. His extended set was a testament to his captivating stage presence and the universal language of music.
The night concluded with a stellar performance by Azawi, leaving the crowd in high spirits. This year’s Fête de la Musique in Kampala was a public celebration, a shift from the more exclusive feel of previous years. The festival successfully brought together diverse musical acts and audiences, embodying the essence of World Music Day: music everywhere, concerts nowhere.
As the rhythms of Fête de la Musique continue to echo around the globe, this celebration in Kampala stands as a testament to the unifying power of music. It’s a reminder that no matter where we are, music has the extraordinary ability to bring us together, transcending boundaries and creating moments of pure joy and connection.