Nigerian music sensation Asake has achieved another milestone, becoming the first African artiste to headline the U.S. edition of Red Bull Symphonic, a globally acclaimed live music series that unites leading contemporary artistes with full symphony orchestras.
The landmark concert, titled Red Bull Symphonic featuring Asake, took place on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the prestigious Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, New York. The one-night-only performance offered a masterful reinterpretation of Asake’s dynamic Afrobeats catalogue, reimagined through orchestral instrumentation and classical composition.
Red Bull Symphonic, a project celebrated for its fusion of modern and classical soundscapes, aims to bridge two distinct musical worlds, contemporary popular music and traditional symphonic performance. For this edition, Asake’s set was conducted by Glenn Alexander II with arrangements by Anthony Parnther, both renowned figures in orchestral direction and composition. Together, they transformed Asake’s unique blend of Afrobeats, Fújì, and Amapiano into a sophisticated live experience that highlighted the depth and versatility of African music.
Audience members were treated to lush orchestral renditions of some of Asake’s biggest hits, including “Lonely at the Top,” “Sungba,” “Peace Be Unto You,” and “Amapiano.” Each piece was infused with strings, brass, and percussion, creating a rich sonic tapestry that elevated his signature Yoruba-infused melodies. The result was a mesmerizing performance that balanced contemporary rhythm with classical refinement — a rare synergy that captivated both music lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
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The event not only showcased Asake’s artistic evolution but also marked a defining moment for African music on the global stage. His inclusion in the Red Bull Symphonic series signifies more than personal success; it represents the growing recognition of Afrobeats as a genre of international artistic significance. By pairing African rhythm and storytelling with the grandeur of a symphony orchestra, Asake helped reframe global perceptions of what African music can be — bold, innovative, and worthy of high-art spaces.
Held within the architectural splendor of the Kings Theatre, the production’s visual presentation matched the concert’s musical sophistication. The stage design seamlessly combined orchestral elegance with modern African vibrancy, from the lighting to the cultural motifs embedded in the visuals. Guests arrived dressed in a mix of classic formal wear and African-inspired couture, capturing the night’s theme of merging glamour with culture. The atmosphere was both celebratory and reverent, symbolizing respect for the genre’s roots while celebrating its worldwide ascent.
Beyond its musical achievement, Asake’s participation in Red Bull Symphonic carries deep symbolic weight. It represents a generation of African musicians who are not only dominating global charts but also expanding the creative spaces where African stories can thrive. His performance stood as a testament to the boundless creativity of the continent, breaking down barriers that once confined African sounds to specific genres or audiences.
From his humble beginnings in Lagos to performing alongside a full orchestra in New York, Asake’s journey exemplifies the global reach of modern African artistry. His rise reflects a movement that continues to redefine cultural expression and challenge long-held artistic hierarchies.
As the final notes of the orchestra faded into applause, one message echoed clearly; African music is limitless. It transcends geography, language, and convention. It belongs in every space, from the bustling streets of Lagos to the grand halls of New York City.
With his Red Bull Symphonic debut, Asake not only made history but also reaffirmed his status as one of Afrobeats’ most transformative and visionary figures. His performance was more than a concert; it was a celebration of identity, artistry, and the unstoppable rise of African sound on the world stage.