Nigerian music superstar Davido has been officially announced as one of the headline performers at the 2025 Essence Festival, joining a powerhouse lineup of global icons in what promises to be one of the most electrifying editions of the event to date.
The Essence Festival, held annually in New Orleans, Louisiana, is one of the largest cultural celebrations of African American music, art, and heritage. First launched in 1995 by Essence magazine to commemorate its 25th anniversary, the event has since evolved into a multi-day cultural experience, attracting top-tier musical acts, thought leaders, and tens of thousands of fans from around the world.
This year’s festival is scheduled to take place from July 4 to 6, and the first wave of artists announced includes a stellar mix of legacy and contemporary acts: Maxwell, Master P, Boyz II Men, GloRilla, The Isley Brothers, Nas, and Summer Walker — with Davido standing out as one of the few international artists on the bill.
The festival will also include a special tribute segment, “ESSENCE Flowers,” honoring the legendary music producer Quincy Jones, who passed away in November 2024. The tribute will be curated by Jermaine Dupri, promising a heartfelt homage to one of music’s most influential figures.
With his global hit records and electrifying stage presence, Davido’s inclusion marks another big moment for Afrobeats on the international stage — and further cements his status as one of Africa’s leading musical exports.
