There’s something about R&B from the ’90s and early 2000s — raw, emotional, sing along and unforgettable. That era of music, didn’t just play; it spoke to your soul. It was the kind of music that was sung in silky harmonies and slow jams, the love songs that never get old. This was the era when music was music and boy oh boy, didnt we use the lyrics of these songs, in school letters back in the day, dedicating and bombasticating them to our high school crushes and sweethearts in the 90s?

And even now, decades later, that sound still lives on. Radio stations across the world dedicate entire hours, sometimes full shows or even the entire station 24/7, to this golden era. DJs know the power of a well-timed slow jam. Streaming numbers prove it too: these classics are still being played, sung along to, and discovered by new generations.

What’s even more powerful is that many of the artists we loved then from Usher to Brandy, TLC, Brownstone, Monica, Joe, Boyz 11 Men and Alicia Keys, are still touring, still filling arenas/ sold out concerts, and still reminding us what it means to feel a song.

In Kenya, a group of passionate music lovers under the name Crispy Life Africa Ltd tapped into that sentiment and built something truly unique. Rhythm and Brunch Africa, is Nairobi’s Ultimate R&B Day Party that strictly plays R&B from the ’90s to early 2000s, a place for grown folks to unwind, dance, and reminisce. It’s not just about the music; it’s about the vibe, the community, and the memories it brings back.

What began as a small gathering just a year ago has now evolved into a must-attend affair for lovers of smooth vocals, slow jams, and the kind of storytelling that defined a generation, the kind of lineup of songs that instantly transports you back to simpler times.

And on Saturday, August 3rd, Rhythm and Brunch Africa celebrated its one-year anniversary — and what a celebration it was. The event was completely sold out, a testament to how deeply this concept has resonated. The crowd was stylish, grown, and clearly in their element. They poured in early from 2 pm, dressed in effortless style and sang and danced until midnight. From the moment the first track played, it was evident: this wasn’t just a party — it was a movement. They sang their hearts out to every lyric, word for word, from the opening track to the last beat. The event was entirely a DJ affair, with leading DJS like Pinye, Nijo, CnG in action continuously churning song after song- nonstop.

Under a massive dome that housed the main experience, everything just clicked. Seating areas and chill zones were thoughtfully laid out, offering the crowd a chance to relax, catch up, or simply take in the music in comfort. It wasn’t just a party, it was a vibe. The kind of atmosphere where strangers dance together, old friends reconnect, and everyone feels like they’re exactly where they’re meant to be.

Food and drink stations were dotted all around the venue, ensuring no one missed a beat while grabbing a cocktail or a plate. From bottomless brunch classics to signature cocktails and curated bites, there was no shortage of indulgence. It was a full-circle moment for the Crispy Life Africa team, whose goal was always to create a space for feel-good nostalgia, community, and top-tier music curation. And they’ve delivered consistently.

Remember how the ’90s gave us slow jams and relationship anthems? From heartbreak to sensuality, these songs captured every part of love. Tracks like: “End of the Road” Boyz II Men to date, are the ultimate sing along. They were sings produced by legends like Babyface, Teddy Riley, Timbaland, Rodney Jerkins (Darkchild), and Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis who crafted unmistakable tunes. These songs were part of school dances, heartbreaks, weddings, and mixtapes. The lyrics were deep, the performances sincere. ’90s R&B taught a whole generation about love, heartbreak, and emotional expression.

With the one-year mark behind them and momentum on their side, Rhythm and Brunch Africa has been a celebration of timeless music, and a reminder that some sounds never go out of style. And as R&B continues to prove its staying power across the globe with artists from the golden era still touring, radio stations dedicating entire shows to throwback jams, and streaming numbers skyrocketing — it’s clear that this genre still has a tight grip on our hearts.

Because R&B from that time wasn’t just entertainment. It was a whole emotion. And it still hits. Every. Single. Time.