American saxophonist and songwriter Kirk Whalum and events and activation executive Belinda Natasha in JKIA/ Brian SimiyuInternational music stars have started arriving in Kenya ahead of the highly anticipated “One Night Only” concert set for May 31 at the Sarit Expo Centre in Nairobi.
American R&B singer Karyn White, Grammy-winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum and Ali Kiba landed at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on Wednesday ahead of the black-tie music event themed “1 Queen, 3 Kings.”
The concert will also feature Tanzanian Bongo Flava star Ali Kiba and Kenyan singer Bien, bringing together a mix of jazz, soul, R&B and Afropop music on one stage.
Fans and organisers gathered at the airport to welcome the artistes, with excitement already building ahead of the weekend show expected to attract music lovers from across the region.
Speaking after arriving in Kenya, White said she was excited to finally perform for Kenyan fans for the first time.
“I’ve heard a lot of great things about Kenya, so I know this is going to be special,” she said.
The “Superwoman” hitmaker also promised fans a memorable performance during the concert at the Sarit Expo Centre.
“There’s only one place to be, and that is at the Sarit Expo for the One Night Only. It’s going to be lit,” she added.
Whalum, who is globally recognised for his work with late music icon Whitney Houston, also expressed excitement about returning to Kenya.
Karyn White arrives at JKIA airport, Nairobi, ahead of the “One Night Only” concert scheduled at the Sarit Expo Centre.The award-winning saxophonist said he was looking forward to reconnecting with young Kenyan musicians he has been mentoring through the Ghetto Classics programme.
“I’ve been teaching students there over Zoom, and now I get to come back and see them,” he said.
Whalum further encouraged fans to attend the event, describing it as a unique musical experience.
“Please don’t forget to get tickets,” he said.
The “One Night Only” concert comes months after the successful Kenny G concert held in Nairobi, which attracted thousands of fans and renewed interest in international live music performances in Kenya.
Organisers say this year’s event is special because it marks the first time the four artistes will perform together on the same stage.
With the arrival of the international stars, anticipation continues to grow as Nairobi prepares for one of the city’s biggest entertainment events during the Madaraka Day weekend.
Ali Kiba arrives at JKIA, Nairobi, ahead of the “One Night Only” concert set for the Sarit Expo Centre/Photo by Brian Simiyu
