Everyone Is Excited About Dave’s Lagos Homecoming

There’s a special kind of excitement when an artist you’ve followed for years finally arrives in your city. That’s the feeling around Dave’s long-awaited arrival in Lagos, where the award-winning British-Nigerian rapper will close The Boy Who Played the Harp tour with two headline shows on October 16 and 17. Announced in June, the concerts will mark the first time Dave will headline his own show in Lagos, Nigeria.

The announcement sent social media into a frenzy, not only because Lagos will be the final stop on the tour, but because the shows will take place at the historic Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts (formerly the National Theatre). With Dave’s music deeply familiar to Nigerian listeners over the years, it is without a doubt that his first headline performances in Lagos is already shaping up as one of the biggest cultural moments in Nigerian music this year.

Dave’s music has become deeply familiar to Nigerian listeners, so it’s no surprise that many are eagerly anticipating this historic homecoming and can’t wait to be part of it. For many Dave devotees in Nigeria, this is the moment they finally get to see the global rap superstar perform at home.

“I remember watching his O2 performance via WhatsApp call with my guy who stays in the UK. One of the best moments of my life before he actually announced Lagos. I have never bought a ticket that fast. Dave makes timeless music. Music that connects reality, dreams and the joys of the present. There’s a reason he has grown this much,” said TBB, an ardent fan.

For anyone wondering, here’s why fans are excited about Dave in Lagos: The Boy Who Played the Harp October 16 and 17 shows.

The Different Eras of Dave Fans Can’t Wait To See

Everyone has their own Dave story: the moment they fell in love with his hard-punching lines, chest-thumping bars, and introspective yet witty lyrics. For many, it starts with that “Look!” before he starts spitting bars.

Dave has accumulated different eras of Nigerian listeners over the years. The OGs before IGs came in during his debut EP, Game Over, while for many Nigerians, it was during the release of his 2019 critically acclaimed debut album, Psychodrama, a project that featured stars including Afro-Fusion star Burna Boy on the hit Location.

“I have been a Dave fan since 2020. Discovering the Psychodrama album during the lockdown was exactly what I needed to navigate those silent days”

There are also fans who found him through his sophomore album, We’re All Alone in This Together. Another project that introduced Dave to more Nigerian listeners through the collaborations of Wizkid and BOJ. More recently, listeners first encountered him through his latest album, The Boy Who Played the Harp, which features Grammy winner Tems. Not to mention those who tapped into UK rap and were there for the release of his collaborative EP Split Decision with Central Cee, among other noteworthy collaborations. The quality of his work is undeniable across his discography. That said, rest assured there isn’t just one version of Dave coming to Lagos.

Our Favourite Dave To Nigerian Collaborations

Dave’s relationship with Nigerian music has also played a significant role in his connection with audiences in the country. As anticipation builds around the Lagos shows, fans are already speculating about which collaborations could make an appearance on stage.

“Favourite songs? I love a lot, so I can’t tell you one for sure. But I’m looking out for the ones with BOJ and Wizkid. If Wizkid shows up, bro?!”

All of these collaborations have travelled through the Nigerian music scene, creating a familiarity that makes his first-ever Lagos headline shows feel like a homecoming.

The Lineup and Setlist Lagos Wants To Hear

While no special guests have been confirmed for either night, anticipation has already sparked conversations about possible appearances from artists including Tems, Burna Boy, Wizkid, BNXN, Oxlade, or someone unexpected. Beyond the speculation, fans are preparing to experience the songs that have defined different stages of Dave’s career, from Psychodrama to We’re All Alone in This Together, Split Decision, and The Boy Who Played the Harp.

“Dave is my favourite artiste ever, and I’ve always said that I’d go to a Dave’s concert before I die, and that’s why when it was announced, it felt like my dream was coming sooner than I expected. I’m hoping to have a great time. THE BEST TIME. I already know it will be. One song I’m looking out for his “Best of my smile.” Also, can we have Tems? That’ll be the biggest plus.”

For Nigerian fans, Dave’s Lagos debut represents more than the arrival of an international artist. It is a chance to see an artist whose music has already found a place in the culture finally stand before the people who have been listening. And judging by the conversations already happening, nobody wants to miss this night. With two headline shows at the heart of Lagos’ entertainment and cultural scene, the city is preparing to welcome Dave home. Tickets are available for purchase at santandave.com or jetronticket.com.