TukTuk Wine & Dine has always been more than just a place to enjoy great food and drinks. It has been a cultural hub, a place where music and community converge to create unforgettable experiences. As we celebrate our 4th anniversary, we look back at the incredible journey we’ve shared with the bands that have become an integral part of our identity. On the night of May 7, 2022, they came together to celebrate our milestone in a way only they could—with music that resonated with everyone present.
Tropic Candy: The First Band of TukTuk Wine & Dine
Our musical journey began with Tropic Candy, the first band to ever perform at TukTuk Wine & Dine. They did an amazing performance on August 29, 2020, marked the beginning of something truly special. Back then, Tropic Candy was a three-member acoustic band consisting of Shehan Wijesuriya, Dasun Perera, and Nipun Perera. Despite their small size, they quickly won over the hearts of our patrons with their unique blend of English and Sinhala acoustic tracks.
From those early days, Tropic Candy has grown into a full-fledged band, now boasting 5-6 members. Despite the changes and growth, one thing has remained constant—their ability to connect with the audience on a deeply emotional level. Their fan base has expanded rapidly, and it’s no surprise that their gigs at TukTuk consistently sell out well before the event. Tropic Candy’s music, a harmonious blend of English and Sinhala songs, has become synonymous with the TukTuk experience. Their acoustic style, rich with soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics, continues to be a major draw, making them a cornerstone of our musical offerings.
Free Mix: A Journey of Growth
Alongside Tropic Candy, Free Mix has been part of the TukTuk Wine & Dine family from day one. Consisting of Haritha, Ashen, Tharinda, and Shiraz, Free Mix’s story mirrors that of TukTuk itself—a story of growth and evolution. Haritha and Shiraz, as the main vocalists, have led the band from their humble beginnings to become one of the most sought-after acts in the region.
Based in Negombo, Free Mix performs at least two gigs at TukTuk every month, consistently drawing in enthusiastic crowds. Their journey with TukTuk has seen them grow, not only in size but in the depth of their performances, always delivering memorable shows that keep their fans coming back for more.
Emerald: A Unique Band with a Powerful Voice
Emerald, led by the incredibly talented Apeksha Chandrasena, has been a fixture at TukTuk Wine & Dine since its early days. Starting as a three-piece band, with Vidura and Shehan alongside Apeksha, they quickly stood out with their distinctive sound, fronted by Apeksha’s commanding vocals. Over time, Emerald expanded into a full band, their performances becoming a highlight of TukTuk’s monthly live music offerings. Now performing regularly, they have built a loyal following that spans across Kadana, Ja-Ela, and Colombo. Fans flock to TukTuk once a month to catch their dynamic performances. Apeksha’s powerful vocals, combined with the band’s ability to deliver both soulful and energetic performances, have made Emerald a fan favorite. Emerald’s journey with TukTuk has been one of mutual growth, and we are proud to continue hosting their dynamic and engaging performances..
Ditty by Sachi: From Solo to Trio
Ditty by Sachi, formerly known as Strings Music, has been an integral part of TukTuk Wine & Dine’s musical journey. Sachintha, who founded the band, began as a solo artist performing acoustic sets at TukTuk every Sunday. Over time, his act grew, first becoming a duo and eventually evolving into a trio. Now performing as Ditty by Sachi, their performances have become a beloved weekly tradition, attracting a dedicated fan base.
Their performances every Thursday and Sunday have become a regular fixture at TukTuk, with a loyal fanbase that follows Sachintha’s every move. Ditty by Sachi is a band that was truly born here, and we are proud of how far they have come. Sachintha’s dedication to his craft and his ability to engage the audience have made him a key figure in our music lineup.
90’s KIDS
The 90’s KIDS, formed by Lakshan Perera and his brother Ashen, have also been an essential part of TukTuk Wine & Dine’s music scene since the beginning. Lakshan was the first solo artist to perform at TukTuk, and it wasn’t long before he expanded his act by forming a band. Together with two additional musicians, the 90’s KIDS quickly became one of the standout acts at TukTuk. Lakshan’s journey from solo artist to band member mirrors the growth and evolution that so many artists have experienced at TukTuk Wine & Dine, and we are proud to have been a part of his musical journey.
The Versatile Artist Who Started It All
Sachintha Pulasthi holds a special place in TukTuk’s history as the singer who performed at our very first event—the Open Mic Night. A versatile artist with a deep understanding of Sri Lankan music, Sachintha has made a significant impact on the local music scene. His ability to blend traditional Sri Lankan elements with contemporary styles has created a unique sound that resonates with a wide audience.
Some of his most popular tracks include “Kohe Giyath,” “Manju Gaawa Naa,” and “Sanda Eliya,” each showcasing his talent for merging different musical influences. Over the years, Sachintha has collaborated with various artists, and his energetic live performances have earned him a loyal following. He was a special guest at our 4th-anniversary celebration, where he performed backed by Tropic Candy, adding to the magic of the evening.
The 4th Anniversary Celebration: A Night of Music and Memories
On May 7, 2022, TukTuk Wine & Dine hosted its 4th-anniversary celebration, a night that will be remembered for years to come. Tropic Candy, Emerald, Ditty by Sachi, 90’s KIDS, and Sachintha Pulasthi. took the stage, each delivering performances that were not just about the music but about the shared memories, the growth, and the community that TukTuk Wine & Dine represents.
The special guest appearances by Lakshan and Sachintha Pulasthi added an extra layer of nostalgia and excitement to the event. These artists have been with us since the beginning, and their performances were a fitting tribute to the journey we’ve all been on together.
With an entrance ticket priced at LKR 1000, the event was accessible to all our loyal customers who have supported us through the years. The night was a perfect blend of old and new, with the bands showcasing how they’ve evolved while still staying true to the roots that made them beloved by our community.
As the music filled the air and the crowd swayed to the rhythms, it was clear that TukTuk Wine & Dine is more than just a venue—it’s a home for musicians and music lovers alike. The 4th- anniversary celebration was not just a milestone; it was a testament to the power of music to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to forge connections that go beyond the stage.
We look forward to many more years of music, laughter, and togetherness, and we invite everyone to continue this journey with us. Here’s to the bands, the fans, and the community that makes TukTuk Wine & Dine a truly special place.