Pallaso connects hearts at Sanyu Sanyu Festival

Ugandan music star Pallaso, real name Pius Mayanja, reminded fans on Saturday evening at Lugogo Cricket Oval why he remains one of the most beloved performers in the country.

While the crowd wasn’t a full house, the Sanyu Sanyu Festival was more than just a concert it was a heartfelt celebration of his musical journey as well as connecting with his fans.

From the early evening hours, loyal fans, families, and die-hard Pallaso supporters trickled in, bringing undeniable energy to both the ordinary and VIP sections.

Though the venue wasn’t packed to the brim, those who came did so with one goal, to celebrate an artist who gives his all every time he steps on stage.

The hosts of the night Dagy Nyce, Evelyn Mic, and Tashi Hubby kept the vibe alive with energetic crowd interactions, jokes, and moments that pulled the audience into the festival spirit.

Before Pallaso made his grand entrance, the lineup of supporting acts brought fire to the stage. From Navio's lyrical prowess to powerful sets by Dax Vibez, Ritah Dancehall, Kapa Cat, Coco Finger, and Nato Boss, the momentum kept building setting up a perfect launchpad for the headliner.

A few minutes past 10 PM, Pallaso emerged in an all-white outfit against a dramatic burst of fireworks, kicking off his performance with his popular hit “Ndikuwaki”. The cheers were deafening, as fans welcomed him with love and excitement.

“This is not a fashion show, it’s a musical journey,” Pallaso declared midway through his performance that he came to sing and perform not changing outfits. 

With the support of a stellar live band, he seamlessly transitioned through his catalogue, showcasing vocal power, stage presence, and emotional delivery. Although a brief sound glitch interrupted the flow, it was quickly fixed, and the music roared on.

One of the most unforgettable highlights was when Pallaso’s elder brother, Jose Chameleone, joined him on stage. The chemistry was electric. Chameleone’s performance was a show-stopper a reminder of the Mayanja family’s legendary status in Uganda’s music scene.

Pallaso also shared the spotlight with several guest artists, reinforcing the festival’s collaborative and communal vibe like Weasel and Grace Khan. It felt more like a family reunion of Uganda’s music industry with fans treated to a night full of surprises.

However, not everything went without concern. A noticeable number of young children were seen at the event, many near alcoholic beverages and loud music. While a few got their moment to shine on stage alongside Pallaso, the situation.

Despite the minor setbacks, the Sanyu Sanyu Festival, powered by Vision Group, stood out as a well-executed, emotion-filled concert.