Jameson Connects 2025 at Gymkhana Club, Lusaka

The biannual and highly anticipated Jameson Connects event kicked off May in style at the lush Gymkhana Club in Showgrounds, Lusaka.

Hidden among greenery and perfectly aligned with the Jameson Whiskey brand, the venue offered an almost treasure hunt-like arrival experience—complete with appointed guides to lead the way.

With wristbands sealed and tickets scanned, the Jameson Zambia team warmly welcomed guests with branded merchandise, goodies, and a complimentary Jameson cocktail, courtesy of a partnership with Tigmoo Eats and Mini Bar.

The stage radiated energy thanks to DJ Eartha, who brought the house down with electrifying Afro House beats. Meanwhile, Jameson stands were strategically placed for quick refills, and a cozy lounge area offered a relaxed space for socializing. Just behind this haven of chill lay a culinary paradise. Guests were spoiled for choice with dishes by ChefKat, Womznomz Taco Trailer, Proper Burger, Rolling Rings, Yalelo Fish’s classic fish and chips, Gigibonta ice cream, and more.

Beyond food and music, the event featured plenty of interactive experiences—from grooming services and a tattoo parlor to henna hand art, Paint & Sip sessions, virtual reality games, and physical activities like Table Football, Cornhole, and Jenga—with prizes up for grabs.

As the evening progressed, the energetic band Stasis Prey captivated the crowd with an explosive Zamrock set, followed by DJ Lady K, who took things up a notch with a crowd-moving Amapiano mix.

Tucked between the second beverage station and the VIP section was the Jameson History and Tasting Experience, led by Dan and Leah from the Jameson team in Nairobi, Kenya. Dan engaged a group of 12 attendees with stories of the brand’s Irish roots, its original workforce, unique culture, and of course, Mr. John Jameson himself. The Zambian crowd proudly shared their affectionate nickname for the drink—Jamie.

Leah guided the tasting journey through three expressions:

• Jameson Original – notes of vanilla, orchard fruits, and nuts.

• Jameson Black Barrel – rich toffee tones with nutty, toasted wood undertones.

• Jameson Single Pot Still – a bold blend of toasted wood, cocoa, and warming spices, exclusive to Zambia across the entire continent.

The leafy venue inspired equally fresh and stylish outfits. Singer T-Low, backed by vocalists, wowed the crowd with hits including the fan-favorite Mumba. DJ Ms. Selfie—dubbed the vibe supplier—took over next, joined by DJ Milkyway for an epic set that saw them dance together to Zenzele by Royal Musiq, Uncle Waffles, and Uncool MC.

Host Medad curated the evening seamlessly from 2 PM onward, skilfully cueing artists and keeping the energy high. He introduced DJ Clap, who got the crowd moving with club anthems, followed by DJ Amma and DJ Sly, who united the audience in song and chant.

Later, 76 Drums delivered a high-octane performance with a choir and a commanding backup vocalist, stirring up the crowd with tracks like Over Shining, Big Machines, and Jahman Juice. The night reached its pinnacle when international star Musa Keys hit the stage, dazzling with hits including Selema Po and Unavailable.

As the event drew to a close, a set of nostalgic Zed Music throwbacks sealed the night. Jameson Zambia delivered an unforgettable experience—an epic celebration of culture, music, and community that left nothing to be desired.