Lagos is where much of the music Africa dances to is made. Afrobeats dominates, but the city’s live scene also runs from highlife and jazz to fuji, juju and gospel.
The New Afrika Shrine
The New Afrika Shrine in Ikeja, run by Fela’s family, is the home of Afrobeat, the music Fela Anikulapo-Kuti built from highlife, jazz and funk. There are regular shows, a loud crowd, and the annual Felabration week in October. Go late; nothing starts on time.
Live bands and smaller venues
- Jazz and highlife nights at bars and lounges on the Island and the mainland, often weekly.
- Owambe bands play at the parties — weddings, birthdays, funerals — that most Lagosians hear live music at.
- Church music: some of the best live musicians in the city play on Sunday mornings.
Venues open and close quickly; follow the musicians and promoters you like on social media and you will hear about the next show.
Concerts
The big Afrobeats stars play arena and beach shows, above all in December, when the diaspora is home. Tickets sell out and prices rise as the date nears.
Tickets and safety
- Buy tickets from the organiser or its named ticket partner. Tickets resold on social media are often fake or used.
- Plan the ride home before you go. Book from a busy, lit place, and check the car and plate.
- Keep your phone close in crowds.