By Bolaji Israel

Afrobeat’s sensation, Adekunle Gold, popularly known as AG Baby, mesmerised hundreds of music lovers and inspired youths at a pre-Christmas concert sponsored by FirstBank, Nigeria’s premier financial institution.

The event, aptly named “Stacked December Party,” took place on December 22, 2023, at the Palms Shopping Mall in Lekki, Lagos.

Adekunle Gold, with his unique blend of breathtaking and soulful melodies, captivated the audience, leaving them in awe and begging for more. The concert, titled “An Intimate Encounter with Adekunle Gold,” provided a platform for the superstar to connect with his fans on a deeper level.

In a touching moment during the show, the acclaimed singer took a break from his electrifying performance to share an inspirational message. He revealed that despite battling the life-threatening sickle cell disease, he had successfully achieved his dreams of becoming a celebrated musician. With unwavering determination and perseverance, Adekunle Gold proved that one can overcome any obstacle and fulfill one’s aspirations.

Addressing the crowd, he said, “I have been on tour for about three years with full energy. I am a rockstar, yet I have sickle cell disease. It’s not easy, but if I can overcome my challenges, so can you. No matter your situation, believe in yourself and strive for greatness. I pray for your happiness and success.”

FirstBank, a financial giant which has operated for almost 130 years and is well known for its commitment to supporting the arts and empowering youths, sponsored numerous customers to attend the concert as part of its DecemberIssaVybe campaign. To win more free tickets, customers are encouraged to follow the bank on its social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram.

The bank’s sponsorship of heavyweight musical events featuring Adekunle Gold, Asake, Night of Queens female acts, Davido, Kizz Daniel, and others through the DecemberIssaVybe campaign since 2017 aims to create memorable experiences for families, fostering bonding and entertainment during the festive season.

Adding to the magical evening, Simi, Adekunle Gold’s superstar wife, joined him on stage for a brief but enchanting duet performance. Together, they serenaded the audience with heartfelt renditions of their popular songs, including “No Forget,” “Stand By You,” and “Look What You Made Me Do.”

Adekunle Gold treated his fans to a delightful mix of his old and recent hits, including “Kelegbe Megbe,” “5 Star,” “Orente,” “Pick Up,” “Jore,” “Jehovah Dey Bless Me,” “Mogaju Aye lo,” “Sinner,” “Okay,” “Ogaranya,” and “Ire Ayo.”

The show also featured the presence of young musical talents; stylish media content creator and influencer, Eniolaoluwa Adeoluwa, popularly known as Enioluwa, as well as skitmaker Layiwola Wasabi, known for his hilarious lawyer roles.

At 36 years old, Adekunle Gold, who holds a Higher National Diploma in Arts and Design from Lagos State Polytechnic, released his fifth studio album, “Tequila Ever After,” in 2023. The album, his first under DefJam Recordings , received widespread acclaim and further cemented his status as a musical force to be reckoned with.

Adekunle Gold’s remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to all, proving that with passion, perseverance, and a belief in oneself, dreams can be realised, regardless of the challenges faced.

His performance at the FirstBank-sponsored Lagos concert left an indelible mark on the hearts of his fans, reminding them that they too can overcome obstacles.