This Easter weekend, Kenyan music legend Makadem is ready to take over The Beer District with his Nyatiti Jazz Experience on Saturday, April 19, 2025 from 7pm. The Easter Beer & Cheer with Makadem concert promises an intimate evening of Afrofusion music, vibrant energy, and celebratory cheer, perfect for ushering in the festivities.
This highly anticipated performance comes on the heels of Makadem’s 20 year career, which has seen him evolve from Mr Lolova to the Ohanglaman to the revered Mganga Mkuu, solidifying his status as the Nyatiti King. His musical journey has traversed genres from dancehall to benga, to the innovative Nyatititronik and his signature sound, Nyatiti jazz.
On November 20, 2024, the Kenyan music pioneer officially marked two decades in the industry with the successful Makadem @20 Safari Concert in Nairobi.
Besides his outstanding music career, this Easter concert marks a milestone as it’s close to the end of Makadem’s impressive 100-day health challenge. Since January 15th, he’s been seriously committed to no carbs, no alcohol. Instead, he has been practising OMAD (one meal a day) and intermittent fasting to detox and heal, showing his dedication and discipline beyond his artistry.
“This Easter concert is a special one for me,” says Makadem. “Not only do I get to share my music with you all, but it’s also a moment of reflection as I near the end of my 100-day challenge. I’m feeling energized and ready to give you a world-class performance.”
Joining Makadem on stage is his phenomenal Nyatiti Jazz band, featuring the sizzling sounds of the saxophone, punchy percussions, rhythmic drums, a deep bassline, a melodic lead guitar, all interwoven with the enchanting strings of Makadem’s nyatiti. Together, they blend traditional Kenyan music with contemporary jazz influences to create ecstatic African dance music.
Early bird tickets are available for KES 1000 (single) and KES 1500 (couple). Gate tickets will be KES 1500 (single). As Makadem shares, “The couple ticket is an invitation to come with your lover, your best friend, even your mother.”
Makadem’s career has been nothing short of exceptional. Since 2005, he has consistently toured, from intimate performances in Lamu and Zanzibar to major festivals across Africa and Europe. He honored the late and great nyatiti legend Ayub Ogada at his memorial concert in 2019, and has performed his songs ever since.
Makadem’s ability to entertain audiences worldwide both young and not-so-young makes this Easter concert a must-attend event in Nairobi. Fans of contemporary African music can expect a rich fusion of benga beats, nyatiti jazz and Nyatititronik all in one unforgettable night.
They will also experience their favourite Makadem hits live, including Mganga Mkuu, Kisumu Bound Bus, and Mogidhi Kona Kona, a cheeky remake of Tiga Kumute by J.B Maina.
Event details
Event: The Easter Beer and Cheer Concert
Artist: Makadem and the Nyatiti Jazz Experience
Date: Saturday, April 19th, 2025
Time: From 7pm till late
Venue: The Beer District, Delta Towers Westlands
Ticket link: https://hustlesasa.shop/Makadem
About Makadem
Makadem is a celebrated Kenyan music legend, world-touring artist and virtuoso of the nyatiti (8-stringed Luo lyre) known for his energetic live performances. His innovative blend of nyatiti music with contemporary styles like jazz and electronic music has earned him global recognition, including an AFRIMA award for Koko Rio album and international fame for the Nyako Daisho remix. Referred to as Kenya’s Fela Kuti, Makadem stands out in the live music scene as a true African cultural ambassador.
