On Saturday, November 8, 2025, something special filled the air in Brooklyn — the kind of magic that happens only when culture, history, and sound align perfectly. The lights dimmed, the orchestra tuned, and as the first note echoed through the grand halls of Kings Theatre, one thing became certain: we were witnessing Asake, a moment destined to be etched in music history.
That night, Asake made history as the first African artist to headline the U.S. edition of Red Bull Symphonic, transforming the stage into a global celebration of rhythm and refinement.
The one-night-only spectacle, Red Bull Symphonic featuring Asake, was a concert and a sonic rebirth – a breathtaking fusion of Afrobeats, Fuji, and Amapiano, interwoven with the grandeur of a full orchestra, under the direction of Glenn Alexander II and the orchestral genius of Anthony Parnther, Asake’s sound evolved into a cinematic masterpiece — a bold redefinition of what it means to merge African rhythms with classical sophistication.
From the first swell of strings to the thunderous pulse of Yoruba percussion, it was clear this wasn’t just music being performed — it was culture being orchestrated, a sacred dance between heritage and innovation that resonated far beyond the walls of Kings Theatre.
Reimagining the Hits: From Street Soul to Symphony
What began as a concert soon evolved into a living, breathing anthology of his artistic evolution. Every note felt intentional, every beat a reflection of his journey. The magic only deepened as the night unfolded, each moment pulling the audience further into Asake’s world. With the orchestra as his canvas, Asake painted new life into tracks from Mr. Money With The Vibe, Work of Art, and Lungu Boy, turning familiar street anthems into grand, cinematic performances that echoed through the majestic halls of Kings Theatre.
The audience was spellbound by powerful renditions of “Lonely at the Top,” “Peace Be Unto You,” “Amapiano,” and “Sungba.” Each song swelled with orchestral textures, strings that shimmered, and choirs that carried the emotion sky-high. It was a flawless collision of street energy and symphonic sophistication, proof that Afrobeats can be as elegant as it is electric — limitless, lush, and alive.
Asake matched the moment’s grandeur with effortless style, stepping on stage in a tailored two-piece suit that whispered quiet confidence. The crisp silhouette and muted palette mirrored the tone of the night — bold yet refined, humble yet commanding. It wasn’t just a look; it was a statement — a visual echo of his artistry, showing how far he’s come from the streets of Lagos to the world’s grandest stages, still carrying his truth with grace and rhythm.
Surprise Guests and New Music Tease: A Night Full of Thrills
Midway through the night, the Kings Theatre erupted as Wizkid stepped on stage for a surprise duet of “MMS.” The synergy between him and Asake was electric — a collision of Afrobeats royalty that turned the audience into a living wave of pure euphoria. The chemistry, the rhythm, and the energy were palpable, creating a moment that will be remembered as one of the night’s defining highlights.
Not long after, Gunna joined Asake for a breathtaking rendition of “Happiness,” blending Nigerian Afrobeats with Atlanta’s trap-tinged bounce. The fusion was seamless, thrilling the audience and proving that music truly transcends borders and genres. These surprise collaborations didn’t just excite the crowd; they showcased the global reach of Afrobeats, with its heartbeat now resonating across continents in unison.
As if that wasn’t enough, Asake took the stage to tease a brand-new track from his upcoming album, Mr Money, giving fans a first taste of what’s to come. The hint of fresh music elevated the night’s anticipation, leaving the audience buzzing and already counting down the days until the full release.
Complementing the musical grandeur was Asake’s stage presence, highlighted by a tailored two-piece suit that radiated understated sophistication. The minimalist design — clean lines, muted tones, and flawless fit mirrored the elegance of the performance itself. It was more than just an outfit; it was a visual metaphor for Asake’s journey: a perfect balance of street authenticity and global refinement, confidence wrapped in grace, and artistry meeting spectacle.
By the time the night ended, it was clear that this wasn’t just a performance — it was a celebration of Afrobeats’ evolution, a fusion of tradition and innovation, and a testament to Asake’s place as one of the genre’s most transformative forces.
Bridging Worlds: The Spirit of Red Bull Symphonic
Red Bull Symphonic has become a space where modern genres meet classical composition, and Asake’s edition was no exception. With Glenn Alexander II leading the full orchestra, the concert transformed the language of Afrobeats, amplifying its percussive heartbeat with symphonic splendor.
For Alexander, who’s conducted ensembles from Carnegie Hall to the Atlanta Symphony, the night represented more than a musical experiment — it was a cultural celebration. Every note carried the rhythm of Lagos and the spirit of innovation, proving that African music can move from the dance floor to the concert hall without losing its soul.
A Cultural Milestone for Afrobeats
Beyond the performance, Asake’s headlining moment was a landmark in representation. It marked a turning point where African sound was no longer a guest in global spaces — but a leading voice, confidently commanding attention on the world’s most prestigious stages.
From “Mr. Money With The Vibe” to “Work of Art,” Asake’s story has always been about elevation — about transforming street anthems into timeless art. His Red Bull Symphonic debut was the culmination of that journey, solidifying him as one of Afrobeats’ most visionary forces.
African Rhythms, Worldwide Reverberation
As the last orchestral notes faded into the rafters of Kings Theatre, the audience erupted into a standing ovation, a tribute to a night that seamlessly bridged continents, genres, and generations. From electrifying surprise appearances by Wizkid and Gunna to the tantalizing tease of his next era, Asake delivered more than a performance; he delivered a statement. African music is limitless, unbound by geography, genre, or expectation, and for one unforgettable night in Brooklyn, the heartbeat of Lagos was felt around the world.
Spoiler alert: Afrobeats just schooled classical music. At Music Custodian, we document milestones that define African artistry. Asake’s show? Equal parts swagger, soul, and symphonic brilliance—a masterclass in global music impact. Covering this performance lets us celebrate how contemporary Nigerian music continues to evolve, captivate audiences worldwide, and reshape the global conversation around Afrobeats, creativity, and cultural influence.
