Nigeria has consistently been a preferred African destination for most American musicians, whether for musical tours, paid performances, or other reasons. Numerous international celebrities have visited Nigeria, including well-known American musicians who have held concerts to excite their Nigerian fan base. In this weekend magazine feature, Daily Trust Saturday spotlights American stars who have graced Nigerian stages.
J.cole
In 2018, the well-known American rapper, J.cole travelled to Nigeria for the first time where he gave a performance at the “Castle Light Unlocks” concert in Lagos’ Eko Hotel. The artist was astounded by the sizable audience that attended his concert performance. The majority of the audience sung along with him as he sang most of his top-charting tunes.
Cardi B
Back in 2019, Cardi B showed up unexpectedly for her Nigerian fans. At the “Livespot X festival” in Lagos, she gave a performance of a few of her hit songs. She became passionate and devoted to Nigeria as a result of how lovingly and warmly Nigerians greeted her. She even took the Nigerian name (Chioma B) that one of her fans had suggested for her. Cardi B took a tour of Lagos, paying visits to bars and orphanages.
- Pet project: First Lady seeks govs’ wives’ support
- First 1,000 days key to child survival, lifetime development – UNICEF
Chris Brown
In 2012, Chris Brown, a seasoned singer, dancer, and composer, visited Nigeria. Many of his followers were blown away by his performance at the Eko Hotel in Lagos. Since becoming friends with Wizkid and Davido, he has travelled to Lagos on numerous occasions. Wizkid, Davido, and Lojay are among the Nigerian musicians he has worked with on music. In a post made by Davido, he had shared that Chris Brown had asked to be one of his best men after videos of his proposal to Chioma surfaced online.
Ciara
American performer Ciara flew to Nigeria in February 2016 for the Dare Art Alade’s third annual event, “Love like a Movie.” She also visited the nation in 2010 and 2006, when she was in Abuja for the Thisday Music Festival performance. Ciara is well known for both her singing and her dancing abilities. She performed and danced in Lagos’ streets alongside Kaffy, Nigeria’s reigning dance queen. Ciara, also visited some Nigerian schools while donning the traditional Iro and Buba of the Yorubas.
Future
American rapper, Future performed in Nigeria in 2019 for his ‘Future Live in Lagos’ concert, which was a spectacular moment. In December 28, he and his well-known girlfriend, Lori Harvey, landed in Lagos for his headline performance on the continent. Every time he sang a song, the audience went wild. They sang along and danced, especially when he sang Buggati, one of his biggest hits. Future was surprised when Nigerians were shouting parts of his lyrics back to him as he was playing a few more songs. At the end of his performance, he said to his fans, “Shout-out to Nigeria, man. Y’all be rocking with me from day one…”
Megan the Stallion
On December 22, 2019, US rapper and the originator of the “Hot Girl Summer” trend, Megan the Stallion, had a riveting performance at the Eko Convention Centre in Lagos. Meghan was warmly welcomed by the audience, who flooded the platform and danced wildly. She performed all of her top songs, including the platinum-selling “Cash sh*t.” She further delighted her devoted audience by introducing Nigerian singer Davido, who sang his top hits Risky and Blow my Mind.
Kelly Roland
On February 16, 2014, American singer Kelly Rowland performed at the second “Love like a Movie” Valentine Concert in Lagos alongside a few Nigerian performers. The performance was hosted by Darey Art-Alade and held at the Ocean View Grounds of the Eko Hotel & Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos. Timi Dakolo, Waje, Tiwa Savage, Zaina, Mo Eazy, Eva, Abigail, Muna, and Lamborghini were among the Nigerian performers during the event.
50 cent
50 cent has performed multiple times in Nigeria. His first trip to Nigeria resulted in a brawl with Eedris Abdulkareem in 2004. In 2007, during his second visit, he gave a performance at the “KORA Awards” in Abuja. On stage, during his second visit, Eedris also expressed his regrets to him.
Other American stars who have visited Nigeria for both concerts and philanthropic works include Boyz II Men, R.Kelly, Beyonce, Jay Z, Akon, Lil Baby, Migos, Keri Hilson, Ja Rule, Ashanti, French Montana, etc.
The concerts held by American stars in Nigeria have not only brought world-class entertainment to the country but have also played a significant role in promoting cultural exchange and fostering international collaborations in the music industry. These events have opened doors for Nigerian artists to gain exposure on a global scale and have strengthened the bond between Nigerian and American music cultures. As the Nigerian music industry continues to thrive and gain international recognition, we can only anticipate more American stars making their way to Nigeria’s vibrant stages in the future. These concerts serve as a testament to the power of music in bridging cultures, breaking boundaries, and bringing people together in the spirit of entertainment and unity.