Londile Moyo
The first 2026 edition of Lite Nights carried high expectations, and delivered. Hosted at a popular restaurant and bar in Bulawayo, Saturday’s event transformed the space into a sleek, sub-zero sanctuary, reaffirming the brand’s knack for curating premium yet accessible experiences.
DJ Black Gorilla opened with a measured, atmospheric set, easing early arrivals into the evening without rushing the tempo. Datboifresh followed, steering the sound toward steady house rhythms. With part of the crowd glued to televised soccer in the bar area, he struck a careful balance, keeping heads nodding without disrupting the dual vibe of sport and sound.
As sunset approached, nostalgia took centre stage. Stinah DaSoul tapped into old-school favourites and current chart-toppers, a proven formula that rarely misses in Bulawayo. DJ Ash T elevated the momentum, sparking spontaneous dance circles that signalled the night had truly come alive.
MC Nospa Chekaz injected strong local flavour, boldly leaning into Zimbabwean anthems in a scene often dominated by South African imports. The move added a refreshing layer of homegrown pride ahead of the international headliner.
Romeo Makota took to the decks at peak capacity, opening with his hit Ntataise to a thunderous singalong. Abangifuni, featuring Eemoh, drew a similar response. His technical precision was evident, seamless mixing and confident stage command underscored his pedigree. However, some Amapiano purists felt his selection leaned too heavily on older tracks, arguing the set lacked the cutting-edge freshness the fast-evolving genre demands. While the broader crowd remained unfazed, the critique sparked quiet debate among enthusiasts.
Any lingering doubts about energy were erased by Kotwane Hikwa, aptly dubbed the “King of the City”. His closing set was intense and in tune with Bulawayo’s pulse, providing what many described as the night’s standout performance.
Balancing local talent with international appeal, even amid debate, the first Lite Nights of 2026 set a confident tone for the year ahead.
Online Reporter