Lagos has once again solidified its reputation as the epicenter of global culture, concluding a record-breaking December season led by Flytime Promotions. The 2025 schedule, which spanned the 21st edition of Coca-Cola Rhythm Unplugged, Flytime Fest, and House of RnB, drew its largest international audience to date, attracting music lovers, diaspora returnees, and industry tastemakers from across the globe.
A Star-Studded Cultural Exchange
The festivities kicked off on December 19 with Flytime’s House of RnB, a transatlantic celebration featuring DJ Tunez and Total. However, the energy reached a fever pitch on December 21 at Rhythm Unplugged. Headliner Rema delivered a commanding performance that underscored his status as a global Afrobeats icon. The night also featured a bridge between Lagos and London as UK rap star Central Cee took the stage, performing hits like "Doja" and "Band4Band" to a crowd that sang every word.
Genre-Defining Performances
Flytime Fest (December 22–25) offered a panoramic view of African music:
Flavour celebrated highlife and Igbo culture with surprise appearances by Phyno and Falz.
Olamide made a high-octane entrance on a Can-Am Spyder motorcycle, reuniting with Phyno and Darkoo to highlight the unity within Nigerian hip-hop.
Asake delivered a cinematic, orchestral set—his first Nigerian performance in two years—honoring his roots by welcoming Fuji legend King Saheed Osupa to the stage.
The Grand Finale
The season culminated on Christmas Day with Davido, whose headline set was a masterclass in scale and swagger. Opening with visuals from his album 5ive, Davido moved seamlessly from early classics like "Back When" (featuring Naeto C) to recent hits, closing the night amidst confetti and a celebratory atmosphere that resonated far beyond the Eko Hotel.
A Legacy of Influence
Since 2004, Flytime has been a cornerstone of the African live music ecosystem. CEO Cecil Hammond noted that this season captured why Flytime remains central to driving what comes next in music. Beyond the stage, the company continues to evolve, recently increasing female representation in its production teams by 250% through its "Women Leading Music" initiative.
