Afro Nation Festival 2024
Praia de Rocha Beach was alive with half-naked bodies glistening in the sun and music reverberating through the streets as it played host to the international musical festival Afro Nation. This vibrant scene showcased Africa’s most promising musical talents across two stages.
On The Lit Stage, Asake closed day one of the festival with a flawless set, backed by hit producers The Compozers, ensuring perfect sound quality. Sporting a vintage USA leather jacket, PDF pants, PDF shoes, Chrome Hearts glasses, and a LAB beanie hat, Asake mesmerized the crowd with his fiery performance, joined by Central C to perform their latest collaboration, "Wave." Earlier that day, Ruger, Nigeria’s newest Afrobeat phenomenon, captivated the audience with an effortless, show-stopping performance, complemented by dancers matching his energy, marking him as a rising star in Africa’s music scene.
Tyla, South Africa’s newest princess, gave a stunning performance filled with dance breaks and hits from her debut album "Tyla - Water" and her latest single "Jump." Despite her shy demeanor, Tyla’s vocals and moves were captivating. Darkoo represented London with a fun, versatile performance, rapping and dancing through hits like "Kryptonite," "She Like," "Favourite Girl," and "Gangsta." Fally Ipupa brought Congolese nostalgia to the stage, performing a medley of smooth, rhythmical melodies from his latest album "Formula 7," introducing his love story to new listeners. Tanzanian artist and now reality star Diamond Platnumz wowed the audience with energetic dance moves and performances of "Melody," "Fresh," "Oka," and "Wonder." Nigeria’s elite artist Flavour lit up the stage in a pink glitter jumpsuit styled by Swazzi, exuding flamboyance and charisma, with his standout performance reflecting his legendary status.
Closing day two of the festival, Nicki Minaj reminded everyone why she is the queen of rap with an animated performance featuring multiple outfit changes and hits like "Superbass," "Moment 4 Life," "Beep Beep," and "Chun Li." Her visually stunning set and undeniable stage presence highlighted her unreplicable status as a rap icon. On the final day of Afro Nation, Rema made a grand entrance atop a huge black gothic rock, dressed in black leather, and delivered hits like "Calm Down," "Charm," "Dumebi," and "Soundgasm." His humor and engaging performance style drew the audience in, making for a great show.
The Piano Stage featured Uncle Waffles delivering a show-stopping performance, showcasing her playful, charismatic energy as a top-class dancing music producer DJ. Skyla Tylaa filled her set with UK hits remixed with piano-styled breaks and hooks, continuing to build her reputation on the music scene. The twin brother duo Major League revolutionised the kwaito sound in South Africa, bringing out dancer-singer and influencer Kamo, who energized the crowd with her hit "Amanikiniki" and latest release "Dalie." DJ Vigro Deep brought South Africa to Portugal, elevating the crowd's energy with his set and establishing himself as an elite in the South African Amapiano scene. DJ DBN GOGO delivered a near-spiritual set, feeding off the audience’s energy and creating a mesmerising atmosphere with lights and wind, gripping the crowd throughout her performance.
Afro Nation proved to be a must-visit for music lovers and those seeking a lively getaway. With an incredible lineup, great vibes, and amazing people, it was one huge beach party that left everyone excited for AfroNation 2025!
Words: Chantelle Parson
Pictures: Nick Haill
