Lilongwe celebrates The Hive Experience night

Despite Lilongwe buzzing with entertainment and music activities on Friday night, the crowd did not shy away from supporting musician Eli Njuchi at The Hive Experience.

Music lovers gathered in their hundreds at the Bingu International Convention Centre (Bicc) for an evening filled with excitement.

The annual event, hosted by the acclaimed musician Eli Njuchi, relalname Chifuniro Magalasi, and organised by Real Image and Umodzi Park, started at 8:30pm, from its initially scheduled 7:30pm starting time.

The lineup of performers included Mazani, Theresa Phondo, Kim of Diamonds, Driemo, Praise Umali, Lawi, Piksy, and the headline act, Eli Njuchi.

After a brief wait, the director of ceremonies, Cynthia Zulu, also known as Cee Zee, invited the first act, Mazani, to perform at precisely 8:30 pm.

Following Mazani’s performance, the R&B sensation Kim of Diamonds graced the stage, and she was followed by the acclaimed gospel and R&B artist, Theresa Phondo.

Phondo took centre-stage at The Hive Experience, captivating the audience with a mesmerising performance of powerful vocals and dance moves.

Dressed in an elegant black attire, she opened her set with the iconic track Zambezi, accompanied by a surprise appearance from Kelvin Sings, who joined her on stage, prompting the audience to sing along.

After Phondo, Praise Umali took over and did not disappoint; rather, he shined with his talent, capturing the patrons’ attention with his guitar vibes and melodious voice.

The crowd joyfully joined him in singing his famous songs, Plan and later on, Ku Tiyeni which features Zeze Kingston and Kell Kay.

At 10:15 pm, Driemo took over the stage, delighting the crowd with his popular songs like Mtendere, Weniweni, Popo and many more.

Musicians Lawi and Piksy also didn’t give the Hive fans time to rest during their performances.

The stage lights at the show and excellent sound projection added vibrancy to The Hive Experience, spreading good vibes to the already awakened audience.

At exactly 11:30pm, it was time for Eli Njuchi, the main act who came on stage performing Gu Gu Gu.

“Bicc, are you having a good time?” Eli Njuchi asked the audience who responded positively.

The Yabaya hit-maker, clad in a black ensemble inspired by the signature looks of the late Michael Jackson, then dished his famous songs from Z, Yabaya, Zitaye, Honest, Mijedu, Duwa, Ma Ine and others.

On stage, he surprised the audience by bringing Gwamba and Kell Kay to perform their hit songs Fumbi and Loss, where he was featured.

During the performance of another well-known track, Ma Ine, the singer’s mother and father joined him on stage to dance and celebrate the song dedicated to the singer’s mother.

Another touching moment occurred when the artist performed the song Z, and the projector displayed images of fellow artists who passed away.

In a post-event interview, one of the patrons Thandiwe Mzumara applauded the organising team for delivering a beautiful evening.

“There was no dull moment and energy was just going up with every performance. I enjoyed watching my favourite artists and Eli Njuchi has proved  he is in the industry to stay,’’ she said.