Entertainment News 1 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Abeeka Band Elevates from Bar Covers to Headline Concert with Originals
Abeeka Band is marking a milestone with its first standalone concert, Roots and Vibes, at Ndere Centre, featuring original music releases and aiming to shift perceptions of live bands beyond mere cover acts in Uganda's evolving music scene. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/lifestyle/entertainment/abeeka-band-takes-live-music-from-bar-act-to-headline-attraction-5443924
Uganda’s live music landscape is evolving, with Abeeka Band leading the charge. After five years as a staple in Kampala’s bars and lounges, the group is hosting its debut standalone event, Roots and Vibes, at Ndere Centre on May 2, complete with fresh original tracks.
Drummer and music director Kevin Sekasi notes the rising popularity of live bands, transforming from overlooked performers to respected attractions across neighborhoods like Bugolobi, Kololo, and Najjera. Lead vocalist James Lubwama, known as Pages, sees this concert as the start of more headline shows.
Long labeled a cover band for renditions of hits by Maddox Sematimba, Afrigo Band, reggae, dancehall, and Afrobeat, Abeeka is now fusing Afro sounds to carve its identity. Bassist and producer Allan Okia admits they ditched amapiano after audience feedback but insists on breaking the cover-only mold.
The event stirs copyright discussions amid bands’ growing commercial success. Okia explains that venues handle licensing under current laws, benefiting original artists, and the band welcomes any new regulations while highlighting how covers revive forgotten songs.
Backed by brands like The Singleton and Tusker Malt Lager, Abeeka eyes recurring concerts and equal respect as solo artistes. Keyboardist Dr Tre captures the shift: live bands are now the nightlife draw, outshining past DJ dominance.
This concert positions Abeeka as artists claiming their spotlight. Source: Daily Monitor