Kampala is in for a velvety-smooth musical weekend as legendary American saxophonist Kirk Whalum touches down this Thursday ahead of the dfcu Jazz in the Pearl Festival. If you’ve ever swayed to Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You,” then you’ve heard Whalum’s soulful sax breathe life into a global anthem. Now, he’s ready to enchant Ugandan audiences once again.
At 66 years young, Whalum isn’t slowing down. The Grammy-winning jazzman — who has collaborated with the likes of Quincy Jones, Jonathan Butler, and Chante Moore — is bringing his signature sound and a full band to the Kampala Serena Hotel this Saturday, May 10th 2025 and he’s just as hyped as we are.
“It is my third time performing in Uganda, but my excitement is fever pitch. I can’t wait to serenade my fans. Each performance feels brand new to me. Hope to see my fans in large numbers,” Whalum shared with his signature charm.
This isn’t just any concert — it’s a full-blown cultural celebration. Sharing the spotlight will be Uganda’s very own jazz powerhouses: Isaiah Katumwa, Tshaka Mayanja, and the ever-vibrant Black Roots Academy of Soul. Expect a night of musical storytelling that blends global groove with homegrown soul.
Behind the scenes, dfcu Bank is doing more than just setting the stage. Through the dfcu Jazz in the Pearl Festival, the bank is championing a deeper cause — nurturing Uganda’s arts scene and celebrating community connection through music.
“Music has an extraordinary ability to transcend boundaries and connect people,” says Helena Mayanja, Head – Corporate Affairs & Sustainability at dfcu Bank. “For six decades, dfcu has been driven by a vision of building a community of progress. This festival allows us to celebrate that journey with the Ugandan people.”
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Indeed, the festival is a perfect harmony of purpose and entertainment, a nod to dfcu’s 60-year legacy of empowering Ugandans, from business to the arts.
Don’t Miss Out!
Grab your crew, polish those dancing shoes, and get your tickets while they’re hot. Early bird general admission goes for UGX 250,000, while a table for 8 is priced at UGX 6,000,000. Tickets are available at selected dfcu branches and online at www.quicket.co.ug
Whether you’re a lifelong jazz lover or a curious newcomer, this is your chance to witness world-class music under the Kampala night sky. The dfcu Jazz in the Pearl Festival promises an unforgettable evening of rhythm, culture, and connection.