Top 10 Biggest Nigerian Music Concerts Held Overseas.
The global influence of Nigerian music is remarkable, with artists breaking records in renowned international venues like the O2 Arena, Accor Arena in Paris, and Madison Square Garden in New York. Nigerian musicians have propelled their music to a worldwide audience, making it a household name.
These talented artists have not only dominated the global music industry but have also hosted concerts and music tours that garnered immense popularity among millions of music enthusiasts across the globe. In acknowledgment of their international triumphs, we've curated a list of the ten most significant Nigerian music concerts held overseas.
This compilation celebrates the achievements of Nigerian musicians who have transcended borders and brought their vibrant music culture to the forefront of the international stage. From sold-out performances in iconic venues to creating a lasting impact on the global music scene, these artists have played a pivotal role in solidifying Nigerian music's position on the world map.
Top 10 Biggest Nigerian Music Concerts Held Overseas
- Burna Boy’s London Stadium Concert (60,000)
- Wizkid’s O2 Arena Three days Concert (48,000)
- Wizkid’s Tottenham Stadium Concert (45,000)
- Burna Boy’s New York Stadium Concert (41,000)
- Burna Boy’s GelreDome Concert (41,000)
- Burna Boy’s Paris Stadium Concert (40,000)
- Burna Boy’s Jamaica Stadium Concert (35,000)
- Davido State Farm Arena Concert (21,000)
- Asake’s O2 Arena Concert (20,000)
- Rema’s O2 Arena Concert (20,000)
1. Burna Boy’s London Stadium Concert (60,000)
Burna Boy achieved a groundbreaking milestone on June 5, 2023, by becoming the inaugural African artist to sell out a stadium concert in the United Kingdom. This historic event not only marked his individual triumph but also established the record for the largest Nigerian music concert held overseas. With a remarkable attendance of 60,000 people, the audience enthusiastically echoed Burna Boy's lyrics during the performance.
The significance of this achievement is accentuated by the presence of international superstars like Stormzy and Dave, who shared the stage with Burna Boy on a colossal merry-go-round. The collaborative efforts of these acclaimed artists contributed to the grandeur of the event, solidifying Burna Boy's status as a global music sensation. This sold-out concert not only showcased the artist's immense popularity but also underscored the growing dominance of Nigerian music on the international stage.
2. Wizkid’s O2 Arena Three days Concert (48,000)
READ ALSO » Top 10 World’s Biggest Concerts In History
Wizkid's monumental achievement at the O2 Arena in 2021 stands out as one of the most significant Nigerian concerts held overseas. Spanning three days, from November 28 to December 1, 2021, Wizkid became the first African artist to headline a three-day concert at this iconic venue. In a remarkable display of popularity, tickets for the event reportedly sold out in an astonishing 12 minutes, placing him among elite artists like Beyoncé and the Spice Girls.
For those eager to experience the historic concert remotely, here's a guide on how to live-stream Wizkid's O2 Arena performance on YouTube. The concert featured stellar performances from prominent Nigerian artists such as Burna Boy, C. Kay, Tems, Bella Shurmda, and many others, adding to the overall allure of this historic musical extravaganza. Wizkid's groundbreaking accomplishment not only solidifies his status in the global music scene but also contributes to the ever-growing recognition of Nigerian music worldwide.
3. Wizkid’s Tottenham Stadium Concert (45,000)
Wizkid made history on July 29, 2023, by being the first African artist to sell out the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. This remarkable concert marked the initiation of Wizkid's More Love, Less Ego tour's European leg and stood out as one of the most significant Nigerian music events held overseas. With an impressive attendance of 45,000 people, the stadium resonated with the energy of Wizkid's performance.
The event was not only a solo showcase for Wizkid but also featured captivating performances by the highlife band The Cavemen and the talented Wande Coal. Their contributions added diverse musical flavors to the evening, making it a memorable experience for the audience. Wizkid's ability to draw such a massive crowd and curate a lineup of exceptional artists further solidifies his impact on the global music stage and continues to elevate the profile of Nigerian music internationally.
4. Burna Boy’s New York Stadium Concert (41,000)
Burna Boy's New York Stadium Concert at Citi Field Stadium on July 8, 2021, stands as one of the most significant Nigerian music concerts globally. This historic event, the first stadium concert by an African artist in the US, boasted a sold-out crowd with an impressive attendance of 41,000 people. Alongside Burna Boy, the concert featured stellar performances from musicians like Nissi and Dave, adding to the musical richness of the evening.
The star-studded affair was not limited to the stage, as notable celebrities such as SZA and Busta Rhymes graced the event as fans and well-wishers, as reported by Rolling Stone. The presence of these renowned figures underscored the widespread appeal of Burna Boy's music and the growing recognition of Nigerian artists on the global stage. This New York Stadium Concert not only marked a milestone in Burna Boy's career but also contributed significantly to the continued expansion of Nigerian music's influence beyond borders.
5. Burna Boy’s GelreDome Concert (41,000)
As a highlight of his Love Damini Stadium tour, Burna Boy orchestrated a historic concert at GelreDome in Arnhem, Netherlands. With a remarkable attendance of over 41,000 people, this event firmly establishes itself among the most significant Nigerian music concerts globally. Beyond the sheer numbers, it holds the distinction of being the first African Stadium concert in the Netherlands, setting a groundbreaking precedent.
READ ALSO » Top 10 Biggest Concerts By Taylor Swift
Taking place on July 23, 2023, the GelreDome Concert added another chapter to Burna Boy's musical journey, solidifying its place as one of his biggest music concerts to date. The resonance of this performance echoes the growing global embrace of Nigerian music, and Burna Boy's ability to captivate audiences transcends geographical boundaries, contributing to the international acclaim of African music on a grand scale.
6. Burna Boy’s Paris Stadium Concert (40,000)
Before the historic GelreDome concert, Burna Boy graced the Paris La Defense Arena, boasting a venue capacity of 40,000 in the city of Paris. This sold-out concert stands out as one of the most significant Nigerian music events held overseas. Reports highlight the unprecedented achievement for African artists, showcasing Burna Boy's ability to draw massive crowds in France.
This Parisian stop on his 'Love, Damini' Stadium Tour, held as part of the singer's solo performance, featured songs from his Grammy-nominated 2022 release, the 6th album titled 'Love, Damini.' The resonance of this concert adds to the narrative of Burna Boy's global influence and the growing recognition of Nigerian artists, emphasizing their capacity to make a mark on international stages.
7. Burna Boy’s Jamaica Stadium Concert (35,000)
As part of the groundbreaking Love Damini Stadium tour, Burna Boy achieved an extraordinary milestone by performing at Kingston Stadium in Jamaica, also known as the Jamaica National Stadium, on December 18, 2022. This tour stop, featuring Burna Boy's hit-packed performance, witnessed national acts like Popcaan and Lila Ike electrifying the National Stadium before a crowd of 35,000 people.
The concert in Jamaica marked an unprecedented feat for African music, solidifying its place as one of the most significant Nigerian music concerts held overseas. The collaboration with local talents and the massive turnout underscored Burna Boy's ability to transcend cultural boundaries, contributing to the global recognition and appreciation of African music on a grand scale.
8. Davido State Farm Arena Concert (21,000)
Davido added a significant chapter to the list of the biggest Nigerian concerts held overseas with his State Farm Arena concert in Atlanta, USA. As part of the A.W.A.Y festival announced in 2022, the concert took place on November 19, 2023, drawing a crowd of 21,000 people. This star-studded event, categorized as the homecoming of the Grammy-nominated Nigerian singer, featured captivating performances from stars like Maryokun, Musa Keys, DJ Spinall, Lo Jay, and many others.
Davido's performance on stage at the State Farm Arena showcased not only his individual prowess but also highlighted the collective talent within the Nigerian music industry. The concert served as a testament to the global appeal of Nigerian artists and their ability to curate memorable experiences on international stages.
9. Asake’s O2 Arena Concert (20,000)
Asake made waves by joining the league of Nigerians who have sold out the iconic O2 Arena, hosting a concert on August 30, 2023, that drew a massive crowd of 20,000 people. Despite the success, the artist stirred some controversy among fans as the regular concert ticket was priced at 70k, sparking outrage.
READ ALSO » Top 10 Biggest BTS Concerts Of All Time
The concert added a dynamic chapter to the narrative of Nigerian music's global influence, with Asake delivering a spectacular performance from his hit-studded catalog. The event also featured guest performances from top-tier artists like Tiwa Savage, Fireboy, Fridayy, and Olamide, creating a memorable and star-studded night at the renowned O2 Arena.
10. Rema’s O2 Arena Concert (20,000)
Rema, the Afrobeats Prince, made a significant mark on the international stage with his Ravage Uprisings at the O2 Arena on November 14, 2023. The sold-out event, with a capacity of 20,000, created a spectacular scene as Nigerian celebrities and fans flocked to London to witness Rema's electrifying performance.
This O2 Arena concert solidifies Rema's place among the elite Nigerian artists who have successfully sold out the iconic venue, joining the ranks of Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, and Asake. Rema's performance on stage showcased not only his talent but also contributed to the continuous global recognition of Nigerian music, reaffirming its position as a force to be reckoned with on the international music scene.
In conclusion, the global resonance of Nigerian music is vividly evident through the monumental overseas concerts of renowned artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, Asake, and Rema. These historic events, held in iconic venues worldwide, showcase the artists' ability to not only sell out arenas but also transcend cultural boundaries. With record-breaking attendances, collaborations with international stars, and sold-out performances in prestigious venues, Nigerian musicians have etched their mark on the global music landscape. These achievements underscore the undeniable influence, popularity, and cultural significance of Nigerian music, contributing to the ongoing narrative of Africa's profound impact on the world stage.
