The success of Nigerian artists at the iconic 20,000-seater O2 Arena in London highlights the rapid global growth of Afrobeats. Several Nigerian artists have achieved the prestigious feat of selling out the venue, reinforcing their international presence and showcasing Africa’s musical talents. Here are five notable Nigerian artists who have sold out the O2 Arena:
1. Wizkid (5 Sold-Out Concerts: 2018, 2019, 2021 x3)
Wizkid, born Ayodeji Balogun, was the first Nigerian artist to sell out the O2 Arena in 2018, solidifying his global appeal. His concerts featured other African stars like Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, and Mr. Eazi. In 2021, Wizkid made history by becoming the first artist to sell out the O2 Arena three times within the same year during his Made in Lagos concert series, with tickets reportedly selling out in just 12 minutes.
2. Davido (3 Sold-Out Concerts: 2019, 2022, 2024)
Davido has sold out the O2 Arena three times, starting in 2019, making him the second Nigerian artist to achieve this after Wizkid. Known for his electrifying performances, Davido’s concerts featured other Nigerian artists like Mayorkun, Skiibii, and Patoranking. His most recent sell-out in 2024 further cemented his position as a global Afrobeats superstar.
3. Asake (2 Sold-Out Concerts: 2023, 2024)
Asake’s rise has been meteoric, with his debut album Mr. Money With The Vibe propelling him to international fame. He sold out his first O2 Arena concert in August 2023, just two years after launching his career. In 2024, he repeated the feat, selling out the arena again with his Lungu Boy concert, which featured guest appearances from stars like Wizkid and Idris Elba.
4. Burna Boy (1 Sold-Out Concert: 2021)
Burna Boy, renowned for his captivating stage presence, sold out the O2 Arena in 2021 with his Spaceship concert. The show, which featured his chart-topping hit Ye, left an indelible mark on the audience and solidified Burna Boy’s status as one of Africa’s biggest musical exports.
5. Rema (1 Sold-Out Concert: 2023)
At just 23 years old, Rema became the youngest African artist to sell out the O2 Arena with his Ravage Uprising show in November 2023. His performance included fellow Mavin Records stars Ayra Starr, Crayon, and Magixx, showcasing the global appeal of younger Afrobeats artists.
These milestones underscore the global influence of Nigerian music, with Afrobeats continuing to break barriers and captivate audiences worldwide. The achievements of these artists have paved the way for future generations, ensuring that Nigerian talent remains a dominant force in the international music scene.
