by Damilola Jagun

The Johnnie Walker Black Podium series kicked off at Lagos’ Intercontinental Hotel on the weekend, with VIP guests experiencing a bold and unexpected night where popular music and masterful performances were expertly blended together, and set about taking Nigeria’s social scene to the next step.

The unique entertainment line-up included performances by Afrobeat pioneer and Grammy-nominated musician Femi Kuti, and Afro-Pop sensation Temi Dollface.

Introducing eclectic variety to the line-up were performances by an acclaimed electric violinist, a contortionist, a magician and a refreshingly rare DJ set, which incorporated a live drummer and saxophonist.

“Talent in Nigeria is very diverse and, through the Johnnie Walker Black Podium event series, we aim to raise the profile of this talent along with celebrating those taking the entertainment industry to the next level in Nigeria,” adds Liz Ashdown.

The evening’s entertainers performed to a packed house that included actresses Rita Dominic, Osas Ighodaro, Maria Okanrende and Musicians Lami Phillips, Waje, Seyi Shay as well as other guests.

Over 50 Johnnie Walker Black Podium events are scheduled to take place across Nigeria in the coming months – including in Benin, Port Harcourt, Ibadan, Calabar, Lagos and Abuja – offering multi-layered music and entertainment performances.

“When you step into the Johnnie Walker Black Podium event series you will experience some of the most creative and unexpected performances in Nigeria. It’s an entirely new, bold space for appreciating fine music, Johnnie Walker whisky and masterful performances,” says Liz Ashdown, Head of marketing, spirits and RTD at Diego Brands Nigeria.

The next major Johnnie Walker Black Podium event in Lagos will take place on December 27th, set to offer attendees another memorable night of masterful acts and entertainment. More details on this event will be released soon.

For further info & updates on Johnnie Walker Black Podium, also go to: facebook.com/johnniewalkernigeria; instagram – @johnniewalkerng; Twitter; @JW_NGR; #yournextstep.