Kampala is raining music concerts. These concerts have evolved beyond live performances into full-scale productions, where what the audience sees is becoming just as important as what they hear. Costumes, stage design, and visual storytelling are now central to how artistes connect with their fans. At the forefront of this shift is fashion designer Abbas Kaijuka with his sharp eye and ability to blend performance needs with striking aesthetics, he has become the go-to creative for artistes who want to make a statement on stage. From Sheebah’s energetic showcases, to Chosen Blood’s distinct flair and Spice Diana’s bold looks and Winnie Nwagi’s commanding presence, Kaijuka’s designs help shape how their music is received and celebrated.
While working on artistes’ costumes, where does the process begin?
When an artiste has a concert, we discuss the concept behind it. Sometimes it is a maiden show, an anniversary or even a charity show. The concept shapes the costumes. For example, with B2C’s concert, they wanted to show different stages of their career. We revisited their style from the early 2000s to date and recreated key looks for each section of the show.
From there, we think about colours, the flow of the performance, and consult the lighting and production teams .How do you balance an artiste’s personality and brand with your design language? I always respect an artiste’s fashion sense and body type. I cannot dress Iryn Namubiru in something that Sheebah would wear; it has to fit her brand and what people know her for. Also, I dislike creating basic looks. Even when I am working within an artiste’s style, I like to surprise them with more. That balance keeps the design authentic and exciting.
What inspires your costume designs for stage, music videos, culture or global fashion trends?
Main inspiration comes from the artiste’s style. It is a concert, so they still need to look like themselves. If B2C is known for suits, there has to be that element in their costumes. But I also keep an eye on global fashion trends because you cannot dress someone in something outdated. Stay true to their identity while keeping it fresh and relevant.
How much does costume design influence the overall success and impact of a live concert?
Fashion plays a huge role. Sometimes people who do not even attend the concert still want to see what the artiste wore. Outfits can hype a show even after it is done, sometimes more than the performance. In this social media era, if you dress badly, that is what people will talk about instead of your music. But if you come out looking powerful, you capture attention and elevate the performance.
Any artiste’s performance transformed by your work?
Yes, Carol Nantongo’s maiden concert. I designed a black-and-white striped outfit that transformed three times during her performance: from a dramatic dress to a dance outfit, and finally into a gospel-inspired gown. I have done similar transformations for Winnie Nwagi, Cindy, and Spice Diana. I enjoy creating pieces that shift on stage, sometimes turning one look into three or four. It changes the energy of the performance.
