Burna Boy Gives Historic Performance At Stade de France
On April 18, 2025, Burna Boy became the first African artist to perform at Stade de France. It was a night like no other show, with 80,000 fans filling the National Stadium in Paris. They all witness a night of both a cultural milestone and a musical triumph.
The show wasn’t just another stop on Burna Boy’s global tour—it was a defining moment for Afrobeats. The genre has long been rising from Lagos nightclubs to global playlists. Now, took center stage in one of Europe’s most revered venues. Moreover, it was propelled by an artist who’s never been afraid to carry the sound of Africa to uncharted territory. Opening acts included Nigerian singer Nissi, who also happens to be
Burna Boy’s sister and Afrobeats star Fireboy DML ignited the stadium with high-energy performances. One could feel the electricity in the venue before Burna Boy stepped onstage.
Burna Boy On Stage
When he came to the stage, it was with a captivating presence that fans came to see. Dressed in a sleek, Paris-ready attire, Burna Boy delivered a career-spanning set. Thus shifting effortlessly between global anthems like Last Last and Ye. Then, going into deeper cuts that resonated just as powerfully with the crowd. His rich, strong voice cut through the Parisian night like a rallying cry.
The night was also full of surprises. French R&B singer Dadju and fellow Francophone favorite Joé Dwèt Filé made guest appearances. Thus, Burna Boy’s African roots are bridged by the French music scene. Nigerian rapper Shallipopi brought streetwise swagger to the stage. In contrast, British rapper Dave joined Burna Boy for a high-octane performance of their hit Location—a moment that sent the stadium into a frenzy.
He paused to take it all in at one point, standing before a sea of lights and love. “Merci beaucoup, Paris! This is bigger than me; it’s for Africa; it’s for every dreamer,” he told the roaring crowd, his voice thick with emotion.
Social media also caught up with the moment. The feed was full of footage of the performance and recognition from fans and industry leaders. Nigerian music star Don Jazzy reflected on what the audience felt.
“What Burna Boy is doing for African music is beyond legendary. Stade de France? Sold out? History has been made!”
This Paris triumph follows a string of record-breaking shows for Burna Boy, including sold-out performances at Madison Square Garden. Also, London Stadium and Paris La Défense Arena. He’s not just selling tickets with each venue—he’s building a bridge between continents, cultures, and generations.
In a world where music often feels global in sound but local in representation, Burna Boy’s Stade de France show was a bold reminder: African music isn’t just part of the global conversation—it’s leading it.
