Nigerian superstar Asake has made history as the first African artist to headline the prestigious Red Bull Symphonic. Reports confirm his sold-out show at Brooklyn’s Kings Theatre delivered a groundbreaking performance, blending the infectious energy of Afrobeats with the majestic power of a 33-piece orchestra—marking a landmark moment for the genre on the global stage.
Asake’s music will be translated from his usual Afrobeats / fújì / amapiano influences into orchestral arrangements. He said:
“Classical music was influential in my childhood … blending it with fújì, Afrobeats, and amapiano alongside a full orchestra is a once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience.”
The orchestral arrangements are overseen by Anthony Parnther as consultant/arranger, in addition to Glenn Alexander II conducting.
The orchestral backing is substantial — one report lists a 60‑piece orchestra for this event.
Asake’s catalogue: Expect reinterpretations of his well‑known songs (for example, hits like “Lonely at the Top” and “Mr. Money”) though the exact set‑list is not fully published.
It marks a genre‑crossing moment: Afrobeats entering an orchestral space — thereby elevating the live music experience for the genre.
For Asake, a Nigerian artist whose roots are in Lagos street‑pop & fújì, this show symbolizes a leap into global consciousness and creative evolution.
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