Tems, Davido, Wizkid lead Afrobeats stars' touring surge
From performing at major festival stages across Africa to selling out iconic venues worldwide, Nigerian artistes are embarking on an ambitious global tour circuit this year. This wave of touring
From performing at major festival stages across Africa to selling out iconic venues worldwide, Nigerian artistes are embarking on an ambitious global tour circuit this year. This wave of touring excellence signals not just growth but a defining moment for the Afrobeats on the world stage. OLAITAN GANIU monitored this movement.
At the forefront is Temilade ‘Tems’ Openiyi, who is set to co-headline the opening night of the All Points East alongside British singer, Jorja Smith.
The one-off concert, scheduled for August 21 at Victoria Park, places Afrobeats and R&B at the heart of one of the UK’s most prominent summer festivals.
Curated by Smith and her label, FAMM, the lineup reflects the genre’s growing global appeal, with rising Nigerian star Ayra Starr also billed to perform.
For Tems, the appearance marks another milestone in a meteoric international rise, driven by her debut album 'Born in the Wild' and her Grammy-winning hit 'Love Me Jeje.'
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Before Tems’ show, Afrobeats performer, Davido will headline a landmark tagged, 'Davido & Friends' concert at Crystal Palace Bowl, London, on August 14.
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The venue that has hosted global icons including Bob Marley and Pink Floyd.
The event will mark Davido’s return to England following his headline performance at the O2 Arena two years ago.
Similarly, Starboy honcho's Wizkid is preparing to headline Afro Nation, the world's largest Afrobeats music festival, on July 3th to 5th.
This year’s Portugal edition is set to take place at Praia da Rocha, Portimão, featuring artistes including Gunna, Asake, and Tyla.
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Emerging voices are also expanding their reach with Nigerian pop artist Folarin Odunlami simply known as Fola gearing up for his first Canadian tour in July, titled 'Catharsis Live Tour'.
Ahead of the run, he is billed to perform in London, Birmingham and Dublin. According to his management, Fola’s aims is to introduce his sound to a wider North American audience.
"First time ever in Canada," Fola said ahead of his Canada tour.
Meanwhile, between June to July, street-pop star Zlatan is planning a multi-city UK tour spanning London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow and Dublin.
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Branded 'Zlatan Live in Concert', the tour will feature a live band and is designed to deepen his connection with diaspora audiences.
"Can’t wait to see you guys. London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow," the rapper announced.
Also, Afrobeats sensation Young Jonn is set to take centre stage at OVO Arena Wembley on September 25, 2026.
