Asake made his Madison Square Garden debut on Friday night. The venue was one of the stops on his ‘Lungu Boy Tour’ for his latest album, Lungu Boy, which validated his place as one of the most innovative voices in Afrobeats. The title itself, Lungu Boy, is a nod to the backstreets; it references the slang for a “street kid” or someone from the less glamorous parts of the city, an identity that Asake has worn proudly throughout his career.

The Nigerian sensation, who has redefined Afrobeats with his street-smart lyrics and high-energy rhythms, took the legendary MSG by storm, proving that his rise from the streets of Lagos to global stardom is no fluke. Asake’s entrance was nothing short of electrifying. As usual, he commanded the stage with the intensity of one who has studied his art and knows just what to do.

Backed by a full band, street dancers, a DJ, and an MC, the night’s energy never wavered. The inclusion of live horns added a layer of richness to his jazz-inflected Afrobeats sound, giving tracks like “Organise” a fresh, brassy feel. The street dancers and elaborate stage design brought a kinetic energy to the performance, transforming the stage into a lively, immersive experience. Asake’s setlist was a journey through his Lungu Boy album, peppered with highlights such the Travis Scott-assisted “Active,” “Wave,” featuring Central Cee along with hits like “Terminator,” “Peace Be Unto You,” “Amapiano,” and “Lonely at the Top.”

One of the night’s most unforgettable segments came during “Skating,” where the stage was taken over by professional skaters and BMX bikers, performing tricks against the backdrop of the track’s beat. Of course, it added a layer excitement and unpredictability to the show, proving that Asake is a consummate entertainer.

While Asake himself is a relative newcomer, his performance stood on the shoulders of Afrobeats pioneers who have paved the way. Following in the footsteps of Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido, the artist is the latest Afrobeats superstar to grace this venue. Each of these artists brought their own style to the Garden, but Asake’s performance was uniquely him, blend of the streetwise grit that defined his breakout with the polish of a global superstar.