Africa plus magazine

Burna Boy lit up the stage at Manchester’s brand-new Co-op Live arena on Sunday night, delivering a high-energy performance that confirmed his global superstar status. The Nigerian Afro-fusion artist brought his signature charisma, a full live band, and a seamless blend of Afrobeats, dancehall, and hip-hop to the UK’s largest indoor arena. With the crowd singing along to hits like “Last Last” and “Ye,” Burna Boy created an electric atmosphere that reverberated through the venue, marking a historic moment as one of the first major performances at the newly opened space.

The Manchester stop was part of Burna Boy’s ongoing world tour, which has seen him headline some of the biggest stages across the globe. Just two days before his Co-op Live performance, he made history at the Stade de France in Paris, performing to a sold-out crowd in the 80,000-seat stadium. His ability to captivate such a massive audience is a testament to the universal appeal of his sound and the infectious energy he brings to every performance.

On stage in Manchester, Burna Boy was in top form, moving effortlessly from emotive ballads to hard-hitting anthems, backed by vibrant visuals and a dynamic stage design. He connected deeply with his fans, often pausing to engage with the audience and soak in the moment. The performance was more than just a concert—it was a celebration of African music’s global rise and Burna Boy’s pivotal role in that movement.

As the tour rolls on, Burna Boy is set to headline the Afro Nation festival in Portugal, where he will join other leading artists in championing Afrobeat culture on the international stage. Later this summer, he’ll also be performing at London’s Wireless Festival, further cementing his status as a powerhouse performer across Europe. With each show, Burna Boy continues to break boundaries and elevate African music to new heights.