RnB Dancehall Lovers Winter Warmer
As Zimbabwe’s live entertainment scene continues to evolve, one event has carved out a unique space by celebrating the soundtrack of a generation.
RnB Dancehall Lovers, a Harare-based music and lifestyle experience built around classic R&B, Dancehall, Hip Hop, Soul and Afro classics, is preparing for its highly anticipated Winter Warmer Edition on 27 June at Bakerloo in Harare.
Now in its eighth edition, the festival has grown from a small gathering of nostalgic music fans into one of the country’s fastest-growing themed music experiences, attracting hundreds of revellers and setting its sights on expansion across Zimbabwe and the African continent.
RnB Dancehall Lovers celebrates timeless music
The organisers describe RnB Dancehall Lovers as more than just a party. It is a festival experience designed to reconnect audiences with the music that defined the 1990s and 2000s.
Built around the slogan “Old Is The New Vibe,” the event combines music, lifestyle, culture and entertainment, creating an atmosphere where different generations can come together through familiar songs and shared memories.
One of the organisers, Juice the Strongest DJ, says the concept has evolved into a community united by timeless music.
“What began as a simple gathering of music lovers has evolved into one of Zimbabwe’s fastest-growing music experiences,” he said.
The festival aims to provide a welcoming environment where guests can relive old memories while creating new ones.
How the idea for RnB Dancehall Lovers began
According to Juice, the inspiration came from an ordinary moment at home.
While listening to old-school music, his partner suggested hosting a party dedicated entirely to the songs they grew up with.
What started as a casual conversation soon developed into a larger vision.
The organisers realised that nostalgic music has a unique ability to bring people together regardless of age or background, inspiring them to create an event centred entirely on classic hits and positive social experiences.
That idea has since grown into a recognised festival brand with ambitions that stretch far beyond Harare.
Eight successful editions and growing popularity
Since its launch, RnB Dancehall Lovers has hosted eight editions, all in Harare.
Each event has helped strengthen a loyal community of returning attendees while attracting new audiences through word-of-mouth recommendations and social media engagement.
The organisers say the growth has happened organically, with satisfied guests becoming ambassadors for the brand.
What began with only a few hundred attendees now regularly attracts well over a thousand music lovers eager to experience an atmosphere built around nostalgia, entertainment and community.
The organisers believe this consistent support demonstrates the long-term appeal of classic music experiences in Zimbabwe.
What to expect at the Winter Warmer Edition
The upcoming Winter Warmer Edition promises a carefully curated celebration of classic music and seasonal comfort.
Guests can expect an extensive soundtrack featuring:
- Classic R&B hits
- Dancehall favourites
- Old-school Hip Hop
- Soul classics
- Afro classics from the 1990s and 2000s
The organisers have also incorporated a winter-themed atmosphere with outdoor heaters, fire pits, food vendors and refreshments designed to keep attendees comfortable throughout the day and into the evening.
Alongside the music, the event aims to deliver the signature RnB Dancehall Lovers experience built on great entertainment, social connection and memorable moments.
Strong ticket sales ahead of the festival
Interest in the Winter Warmer Edition appears to be building steadily.
According to the organisers, Phase 1 tickets sold out, signalling strong demand for the event.
Phase 2 tickets remain available through online platforms and physical outlets, while those who prefer to buy on arrival will be able to purchase gate tickets priced at US$15.
The organisers say they expect a mix of loyal supporters and first-time visitors as anticipation continues to grow.
Ambitions beyond Harare
While Harare remains the home of RnB Dancehall Lovers, the organisers have ambitious plans for the future.
The festival hopes to expand into Bulawayo, Mutare, Kariba and Victoria Falls, before exploring opportunities in other African cities.
Their long-term goal is to establish RnB Dancehall Lovers as a continental festival brand capable of attracting regional audiences, international artists, tourism partners and global sponsors.
“We believe Africa deserves iconic music festivals that celebrate its people, culture and love for timeless music, and RnB Dancehall Lovers is determined to be part of that future,” said Juice.
The vision reflects a broader trend within Zimbabwe’s entertainment industry, where locally developed events are increasingly attracting national attention and contributing to cultural tourism.
Zimbabwe’s nostalgia movement continues to grow
The popularity of themed music events highlights a growing appetite for experiences that celebrate familiar sounds and shared cultural memories.
Across Zimbabwe, festivals centred on nostalgia, lifestyle and community continue to attract audiences seeking more than just live performances, offering spaces where music serves as a bridge between generations.
For the organisers of RnB Dancehall Lovers, that sense of connection remains at the heart of the festival.
As preparations enter their final stages, music lovers are invited to come through to Bakerloo this weekend for an event that will be another milestone in the growth of a uniquely Zimbabwean festival brand.
“We would like to thank everyone who has supported the RnB Dancehall Lovers movement from day one.
“Whether you attended the first edition or recently joined the family, your support has helped us build something truly special.
“We invite everyone to join us on 27 June at Bakerloo Harare for the Winter Warmer Edition and become part of that journey.”
With its message that “Old Is The New Vibe,” RnB Dancehall Lovers is betting that the biggest hits of yesterday still have the power to fill dance floors today.
