Legendary American R&B group Shalamar is set to light up Abuja with a spectacular live performance on October 4, in celebration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the concert will hold at the International Conference Centre, promising fans in the Federal Capital Territory and beyond an unforgettable night of timeless music and high-energy performances.
Organised by iCreate Africa in partnership with First Culture Limited, the event is designed as a nostalgic musical journey through Shalamar’s iconic catalogue—perfect for lifelong fans and a fresh introduction for younger audiences.
Best known for global hits such as ‘A Night To Remember’ and ‘I Can Make You Feel Good’, the Grammy-winning trio—’Howard Hewett, Carolyn Griffey, and Jeffrey Daniel’ —will perform alongside a live band, delivering an evening of soul, funk, and electrifying stagecraft.
Speaking on the significance of the show, CEO of iCreate Africa, Bright Jaja, described the tour stop as a cultural milestone. “We’re thrilled to welcome Shalamar to Abuja this Independence weekend. Their decision to include Nigeria on their global tour is not just an honour—it’s a long-overdue gift to the vibrant community of music lovers who have carried their legacy for decades,” he said.
Jaja added that the concert will offer a rare experience for mature audiences who seldom see major events curated for their taste.
Tickets are available at Jabi Boat Club, El-Amin International School, House 43, and Istanbul Restaurant, Jabi Mall.
Similarly, the Creative Director at First Culture, Tunde Babalola, noted that the concert is more than entertainment:
“This isn’t just a show—it’s a gift to all generations; a musical bridge between the past and present, curated to evoke thrills, nostalgia, and goosebumps.”
In a video message, the group members expressed excitement about returning to Nigeria. Daniel, who pioneered the famous “backslide” dance move—later renamed the “moonwalk”—assured fans the evening would truly be “a night to remember.”
Shalamar, celebrated for their dynamic performances and for popularising “body-popping” in the UK, remains one of the most influential funk and soul groups of their era. With over 25 million records sold before the classic lineup split in the mid-1980s, their impact on global R&B remains undeniable.
Their catalogue features beloved tracks including ‘Friends’, ‘Make That Move’, ‘Sweeter As The Days Go By’, ‘There It Is’, and ‘I Owe You One’.
This will mark Shalamar’s second visit to Nigeria. The group first performed in the country in January 1982, playing at the National Arts Theatre in Lagos and staging sold-out shows at the University of Lagos, University of Ibadan, and the then University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University).
As Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence Day, Shalamar’s return promises an unforgettable night of live music, soulful nostalgia, and cross-generational celebration.