On a historic night at Madison Square Garden, Nigerian Afrobeats star Asake brought a piece of Lagos to the streets of New York City with his headline show for the Lungu Boy tour. From the moment the curtain dropped, the energy was electric, and it was clear that Asake wasn’t just performing; he was telling a story—one that transcends borders, languages, and cultures, uniting corners of the world where struggle and creativity are intertwined.
Asake, born Ahmed Ololade, represents a new generation of African artists who are reimagining global pop music. His unique blend of Afrobeats, Fuji, Amapiano, and hip-hop has catapulted him into international stardom. But on this night, in the heart of New York City, Asake didn’t just showcase his hits; he gave the audience a glimpse into the vibrant spirit of the Lagos streets he came from.
The Lungu Boy tour, named after his latest album which translates to “Ghetto Boy,” highlights the enclaves of creativity and resilience that Black, working-class communities all over the world embody. The concert set, with its stacks of tires, shipping drums, and graffiti-splashed walls, was a gritty homage to the streets of Lagos. It was as much a visual representation of West African life as it was a nod to the street culture of New York, where hip-hop was born and raised.
What set Asake’s performance apart was his ability to capture the raw, unpolished energy of the streets. It wasn’t always a slick, perfectly choreographed show. In fact, some of the best moments came from its looseness—his dancers, often out of sync, seemed to embody the same carefree spirit that permeates street life. There were times when Asake himself appeared more at ease hanging out by the DJ decks than commanding the stage, but that casual vibe added to the authenticity of his performance.
The music was more than just backing for Asake’s vocals—it was orchestral, each instrument adding a distinct layer of texture. His drummer, in particular, delivered an impassioned performance, while the trio of keyboardists (one also doubling on bass) turned every song into a live, pulsating experience. Tracks like “Muse,” reimagined with a 90s R&B groove, and “Basquiat,” given an urgent, almost cinematic twist, showed the band’s mastery in elevating the studio tracks to new heights.
