WPGM Previews: Afro Nation 2025

Afro Nation Portugal returns for its landmark fifth-anniversary edition from 9 – 11 July 2025 on the sun-drenched sands of Praia da Rocha in Portimão, Algarve, bringing together the world’s... The post WPGM Previews: Afro Nation 2025 appeared first on WE PLUG GOOD MUSIC.

May 26, 2025 - 01:55

Afro Nation Portugal returns for its landmark fifth-anniversary edition from 9 – 11 July 2025 on the sun-drenched sands of Praia da Rocha in Portimão, Algarve, bringing together the world’s leading Afrobeats, Amapiano, Dancehall, Hip-Hop and RnB artists for three days of non-stop music and celebration.

This year’s lineup is the most expansive yet, featuring over 30 acts spanning global superstars, breakout talents and genre-spanning DJs, ensuring every corner of the festival grounds pulses with rhythm and culture.

Across multiple stages – including the iconic Main Stage, the Amapiano-dedicated Piano People platform, and the elevated Sky Terrace – the festival promises an unrivalled sonic journey under the Algarve sun.

The Headliners

Nigeria’s Grammy-winning megastar Burna Boy returns to close out Afro Nation with his signature blend of Afro-fusion, dancehall and reggae-inspired tracks. His explosive live show and global hits like “Last Last” and “Ye” make him one of the festival’s most anticipated headliners.

Chris Brown, the R&B icon behind chart-topping singles and renowned for his dynamic choreography, was unveiled as the festival’s final headliner in March 2025. Fresh off his ‘11:11’ album and recent sold-out South African shows, Brown’s beach-side set is set to fuse R&B, dancehall and Afrobeats influences for a high-energy spectacle.

Afrobeats heavyweight Davido brings his electrifying stage presence and hits like “Fall” and “Timeless” to the Algarve, marking his third appearance at Afro Nation Portugal. His performance is expected to draw huge crowds, cementing the festival’s reputation as the epicentre of African music culture.

Rising global star Tems, whose collaborations with Wizkid and Drake have propelled her to international stardom, headlines the festival’s second night with her soulful vocals and genre-blending sound.

Special sunset appearances from Mary J. Blige, celebrated as the ‘Queen of Hip-Hop Soul’, and French rap legend Booba add further diversity to the headlining roster, with Blige’s soulful R&B set and Booba’s hard-hitting rap anthems providing memorable cross-genre highlights.

Supporting Acts

Amaarae, the Ghanaian-American singer known for her avant-pop sensibilities, brings experimental melodies to the Piano People stage. Also appearing at the festival is Franglish, the Franco-Ivorian rapper and singer, combining drill-influenced flows and melodic hooks that have taken Europe by storm. Joé Dwèt Filé, the Haitian-French sensation, will also be delivering vibrant zouk-inspired Afrobeats at the festival.

Scorpion Kings (DJ Maphorisa & Kabza de Small) will bring South Africa’s hottest Amapiano grooves to the Piano People stage, while Uncle Waffles and DBN Gogo, two of the genre’s most in-demand DJs, are set to keep dancefloors moving with their signature house-infused sets. Vigro Deep delivers soulful piano-driven cuts that have become synonymous with South African nightlife.

Dexta Daps, Jamaica’s dancehall-R&B hybrid, and Naza, the French-Congolese rapper, are also set to showcase the global reach of African sounds at the festival. Ronisia, whose viral hit “Loading” dominated charts in the Netherlands and beyond, represents the next wave of European Afropop talent at Afro Nation this year.

Beyond the Beats

The Sky Terrace will deliver cliff-top chill zone by day, sunset cocktail haven and DJ haven by evening – complete with panoramic views of the festival and ocean.

Festival revellers can also expect curated river cruises and boat parties, where DJs spin live as you drift under the stars – expect impromptu bangers and unbeatable photo ops.

The Art & Eats Village will deliver pop-up galleries spotlighting African artists, plus street-food traders serving jollof rice tacos, peri-peri prawns and vegan akara balls.

Tickets – from three-day general admission to VIP upgrades with exclusive viewing decks – are on sale now at afronation.com. Accommodation in Portimão and nearby Albufeira fills up fast once dates drop, so lock in your stay early and prepare for the ultimate summer soundtrack.

Afro Nation Portugal is a global family gathering where every bass drop and drum roll sparks connections, dance moves and memories that last long after the sun sets. We’re hoping to see you there!

Words by Margarida Pereira

The post WPGM Previews: Afro Nation 2025 appeared first on WE PLUG GOOD MUSIC.