Blog

Walking out spitting lyrics to an unreleased track which aligned with the thematic and sonic universe of ‘M$NEY,’ Asake’s vocals cut through.

Written by Ezra Olaoya – 03.Jul.2026

Rich with affirmations, manifestation and gratitude, there is a prophetic quality that permeates Asake’s music. His 2022 breakout single “Omo Ope”-which can be loosely translated as someone who is highly favoured-was a jubilant declaration of living in expectation of the blessings the path to inevitable success. The faith with which he made this declaration was swiftly rewarded with an Olamide feature that preceded a generational run of snippets, singles and a classic debut album which marked 2022 as a year that will always be synonymous with Mr Money.
The following four years have been filled with that foretold success. There have been sold out shows in iconic venues, from London’s O2 Arena in 2023 to New York’s Madison Square Garden in 2024. There has been more iconic music created across three albums, a joint EP with Wizkid as well as a deck of memorable feature verses. There has also been, as he will not neglect to let his fans know, a lot more money made. 
His Red Bull Symphonic performance in Brooklyn’s King Theatre last year felt like a crowning moment for an artist who has steadily built a discography that evolves thematically and sonically in step with his life experiences while maintaining an unmistakable essence. These expressions which see Asake seamlessly blend influences spanning from Fuji to Electronic Dance Music to Séga music, translate impactfully in his live performances. Augmented by live instrumentation, solid vocals and an assured swagger on stage, Asake has become one of Nigeria’s most formidable live performers, crowning his catalogue with memorable moments on stage. 

 
His milestone performance in New York last year is indicative of a pattern which has seen Afrobeats artists bring their music to stages which have not traditionally welcomed artists of the genre. Notable examples include Adekunle Gold at Royal Festival Hall in November 2025, as well as Fireboy DML and Cavemen at Royal Albert Hall in April and August 2025, respectively. Though these venues do not affirm or legitimise the value and skill of Afrobeats artists, these performances demonstrate how the quality and commercial viability some of these artists bring has become undeniable, leading them to be embraced in these music cathedrals. 
Whether or not performing in these revered halls ‘elevates’ the art, these performances demonstrate that the genre’s storytelling and musicality can consistently produce memorable spectacles, even in these contexts where they may once been shunned. Despite the success of the Red Bull Symphonic performance which had  teasers of the forthcoming project,  2026’s ‘M$NEY’ arrived with relatively little fanfare per Asake’s standards. That said, on Sunday 21st June, the excitement in the air was palpable. In London’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane, a mixture of top listeners, press and media personalities donned their finest black tie to witness Mr Money grace the stage for a “One Night Only” performance in partnership with Spotify.

 
As the curtains of the 2,300 capacity theatre rose to cheers of expectant fans, a host of backing vocalists and instrumentalists poised themselves on the stage according to their role. The man of the moment emerged decked in a leather two piece, complete with a subtle embellishment of diamonds on the collar of his jacket, a signifier that as his moniker suggests, he indeed is Mr Money.

Walking out spitting lyrics to an unreleased track which aligned with the thematic and sonic universe of ‘M$NEY,’ Asake’s vocals cut through cleanly from the start to the end of his performance. Fan favourites could be easily detected by the eruption of cheers in response to the opening chords and lyrics, with tracks like  “Wa,” “Why Love,” and “Forgiveness” met by roars and impassioned renditions by members of the audience members. The theatre seating, usually synonymous with ‘polite’ reservation became a dancefloor as Asake shared tales of gratitude and opulence. 

 
The onstage ensemble including choir, band and backing vocals shared this energy with animated choreography, bringing life to the affirmations and reflections being shared. Meanwhile, Asake’s stage presence embodied ‘itutu’-a calm, assured confidence that was evident in the dance breaks and the way he sauntered around the stage-a marked contrast with the high octane performances of 2022. 
As the night progressed, the two piece leather set became a waistcoat and trousers before it became a dazzling gold top–gradual outfit changes which echoed a metamorphosis of sorts. Importantly, the performance of the tracks contextualized his latest album, exploring ideas of love, affirmation and gratitude alongside the accompaniment of a live band communicating feelings in a way that doesn’t always translate digitally. Asake’s performance was indicative of someone who is aware of how far they’ve come and can only give thanks for the journey. 
2022’s ‘Mr Money With The Vibe’ opened with Asake’s earnest prayers on “Dull,” requesting that he shouldn’t stumble as he ascended the highest summit. Fast forward to 2026 in London, as Asake stood in the centre of the stage with his arms open while the crowd sang the lyrics to ”Worship,” it felt like an expression of gratitude for answered prayers. While sometimes expressed through flaunting of wealth and demonstration of excesses, there is a clear sense that Asake attributes his success to the grace of God. 
2026’s ‘M$NEY’ can perhaps be read as an offering of thanksgiving as Asake basks in the manifestation of the blessings he prophesied when he first burst onto the scene. The pursuit of success and wealth can often seem insatiable, each milestone unlocking a deeper desire for the next. Through this project and his live performance, Asake exemplifies the simplicity and beauty of gratitude.