Over the weekend, Ugandan hip-hop star Navio born Daniel Lubwama Kigozi delivered a landmark performance at the Serena Hotel, fusing rap with a live orchestra in what many are calling one of Uganda’s most groundbreaking concerts to date.
Dubbed The Navio Orchestra Experience, the show was organized by Fenon Events and marked his 10th major headlining concert.
This time, he pushed creative boundaries by performing alongside a 40-piece orchestra and his longtime collaborators, the Aka Dope Band, a bold move that reimagined the possibilities of Ugandan hip-hop.
Conducted by music director Polycarp Kyagulanyi, the orchestra breathed new life into some of Navio’s biggest hits, including Ngalo, Bugumu, On & On, and Njogereza, each rearranged with rich, symphonic layers.The result was a mesmerizing blend of classical instrumentation and lyrical grit, proving the genre’s adaptability and emotional range.
A star-studded lineup of collaborators joined him on stage, including The Mith, Keko, Feffe Bussi, Babaluku, and Sweden-based singer Kadiatou Holm. Together, they delivered dynamic performances that struck a chord with the diverse audience of fans, music enthusiasts, and industry figures in attendance.
Fenon Events, known for world-class production, raised the bar yet again with impeccable sound, lighting, and stage design. From the red carpet arrivals to the final encore, every detail was executed with international finesse, cementing Fenon’s status as a powerhouse in East African events management.
Beyond music, the concert also carried a message of social impact. Navio announced that part of the proceeds would support maternal health initiatives and provide sanitary products to girls in underserved rural communities , a gesture that highlighted his ongoing commitment to social change.
Celebrating 20 years in the industry, Navio didn’t just reflect on his legacy , he elevated the future of live performance in Uganda.
The Orchestra Experience is already being seen as a transformative moment, one likely to inspire more artists to explore genre-blending and live orchestration in their shows.
