ART X Lagos In Collaboration With Native Magazine Presents: Future Nostalgia

Through the lens of recording artists, music producers and culture journalists, this session examines the influence of traditional African genres of music like Fuji on the Nigerian music landscape and popular youth culture today.

In recent years, popular African music has evolved significantly. Each new generation brings more globalisation and diverse perspectives, leading to new subgenres and innovative sounds. The current soundscape takes a nostalgic approach, drawing inspiration from the past with refreshing twists indicative of a promising future. This year, sampling and interpolation have become prominent as Nigerian artists top charts with reimagined versions of classic hits. For example, Asake’s "Active" flips elements of Jazzman Olofin and Adewale Ayuba’s "Raise Da Roof," while Tems’ debut album features Magic System’s iconic single "1er Gaou." Afropop highlights the cyclical nature of good music, emphasising its timelessness while shaping the sound of today.

This Talk will be moderated by Tayo Bero in discussion with Adewale Ayuba, Lady Donli, Odunsi the Engine and Jide Taiwo.