Kampala’s jazz community was treated to a rare musical experience on Sunday evening when American saxophonist Kenny G performed at Mestil Gardens. The 68-year-old musician, famed worldwide for his smooth jazz sound, played for close to two hours in a show that blended intimacy, nostalgia, and technical brilliance.
The concert nearly fell victim to the weather as afternoon rain and strong winds swept across the city, but by evening the skies had cleared and the grounds filled up with fans eager to see the man whose melodies have become a fixture at Ugandan weddings and romantic celebrations.
Kenny G during his performance
When Kenny G stepped onto the softly lit stage in his trademark blue suit, the anticipation gave way to awe. He opened with Loving You before moving through a setlist that included classics like Silhouette, The Moment, Havana, and a surprise rendition of My Heart Will Go On. His mastery of circular breathing – holding impossibly long notes without pause – drew cheers and disbelief from the audience.
Phones lit the gardens as fans tried to capture the performance, while the atmosphere mixed sophistication with celebration. The evening carried the feel of a festival for jazz lovers, but with the poise of a private recital.
It was a moment worth capturing.
The event also had a corporate touch, with Johnnie Walker Green Label and Tusker Malt Lager positioned as the main backers. Their presence was visible in the toasts raised between songs and in the branding around the venue. Representatives from both brands tied their support to a celebration of music and artistry, though for the audience, it was the sound of the saxophone that defined the night.
For many, Kenny G’s visit was more than a concert — it was a reminder of jazz’s ability to cross borders and generations, and a chance to see up close an artist whose music has quietly lived in Ugandan homes for decades.
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