Stories by Akanbi Quadri
On December 21, 2024, the heart of Surulere came alive with the 6th edition of LavaPopFest, a celebration of Africa’s boundless creativity.
Hosted at the bustling Eric Moore event space, this year’s festival was a sensational showcase of talent that left attendees buzzing with excitement and awe.
As the sun set over Lagos, the air crackled with anticipation. Fans, creatives, and industry insiders poured into the venue, decked out in their most stylish outfits, ready to be dazzled by the freshest faces in music, fashion, and art. LavaPopFest, founded in 2019, has built a reputation as the ultimate launchpad for Africa’s next big stars, and this year was no exception.
A Lineup That Delivered Electrifying Performances
From the moment the festival kicked off, it was clear that the audience was in for an unforgettable ride. Rising stars like Sheddy, Viqq, Yande, The Beat Murderer, Stunner, Owizzy OG, TROY OMO IYA IJO, and Femi Dave set the stage on fire. But it was headliner Blazehenshaw who truly stole the show with a performance that had the crowd singing, dancing, and screaming for more.
His catchy tunes and magnetic stage presence made him the undisputed star of the night.
One of the most talked-about moments of the evening was when The Beat Murderer, the famed producer behind Seyi Vibez and a powerhouse under Dapper Records, joined the stage for a surprise DJ set. The crowd’s energy hit a fever pitch as he spun hit after hit, proving why he’s one of Africa’s most sought-after producers.
But LavaPopFest isn’t just about music. It’s a multi-disciplinary celebration of creativity, and the fashion designers did not disappoint. From traditional Ankara pieces reimagined in futuristic styles to bold streetwear that turned heads, the runway was a feast for the eyes. Designers from across Africa brought their A-game, blending cultural heritage with cutting-edge trends.
One standout was a collection by emerging designer Tolu Threads, whose pieces fused Yoruba traditional patterns with avant-garde silhouettes. The applause was deafening, and it was evident that the audience couldn’t get enough.
At its core, LavaPopFest is about more than just entertainment; it’s a platform that uplifts and empowers. Created in Surulere as a grassroots initiative, the festival’s mission is to give back to the community by providing a stage for undiscovered talent. “We want every young creative to believe in themselves,” said Michael Aladenusi Badejo, better known as Omotailor, the festival’s passionate president. His vice, Joseph Noah and Treasurer Badejo Leonard echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the festival’s commitment to spotlighting Africa’s next big stars.
For many Lagosians, December isn’t complete without a lineup of thrilling events, and LavaPopFest has firmly secured its place as the crown jewel of “Detty December.” The festival seamlessly blends high-energy performances with a celebratory end-of-year vibe, making it a must-attend occasion. Attendees described the night as the perfect way to kick off the festive season, with LavaPopFest providing an atmosphere of unbridled joy, connection, and creative inspiration.
The event’s organizers pulled out all the stops, offering not just a feast of performances but also interactive experiences like art installations and pop-up food stalls. It was a night that encapsulated the true spirit of Detty December—vibrant, unapologetically African, and unforgettable.
Reflecting on six incredible years, LavaPopFest has grown from a local event to a continental phenomenon. Each edition raises the bar, drawing talent and audiences from across Africa. This year’s festival not only cemented its status as a cultural powerhouse but also left no doubt that it’s shaping the future of African entertainment.
As the night drew to a close, the electric atmosphere lingered, and attendees were already buzzing about next year’s edition. LavaPopFest isn’t just an event; it’s a movement, a celebration of everything that makes Africa’s creative scene vibrant and unstoppable.
Until next year, Surulere will hum with the memories of LavaPopFest 2024—a night where dreams took flight, and the stars of tomorrow shone brightly.
