Nigerian music sensation Yemi Alade has been announced as the headline act for the 2025 WOMADelaide Festival, one of the world’s premier music and arts festivals. Taking place from March 7–10 at Botanic Park in Adelaide, Australia, the festival will showcase a diverse lineup of global artists, with Alade leading the charge as the face of Afrobeats on the international stage.
Known for her energetic performances and global hit songs like Johnny, Shekere, and Baddie, Yemi Alade has cemented her status as one of Africa’s most influential artists. Her participation in WOMADelaide underscores the growing impact of Afrobeats on the world music scene.
“I am beyond excited to bring my music and African culture to WOMADelaide,” Alade said in a statement. “Afrobeats is a global movement, and I’m honored to share its energy with new audiences in Australia.”
This marks a significant moment for the festival, as Yemi Alade is among the first Afrobeats artists to headline the event, reflecting the genre’s increasing global popularity.
In addition to Yemi Alade, WOMADelaide 2025 will feature an eclectic mix of international artists, including Grammy-winning jazz musician Esperanza Spalding, South African choral group Ladysmith Black Mambazo, and electronic music duo Thievery Corporation.
The festival, which has been running since 1992, is known for celebrating cultural diversity through music, dance, and art. Organizers are confident that Alade’s presence will attract a wider audience and further cement WOMADelaide as a platform for global music exchange.
Afrobeats has seen an explosion in popularity over the past decade, with artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tiwa Savage pushing the genre onto global stages. Yemi Alade, often referred to as the “Queen of Afrobeats,” has played a pivotal role in this movement.
Her performances are known for their high-energy dance routines, vibrant African-inspired fashion, and crowd engagement, making her a perfect fit for WOMADelaide’s multicultural celebration.
Music critics expect her setlist to include a mix of her biggest hits, alongside new material from her upcoming album. Fans are eager to experience her electrifying stage presence and dynamic vocal performances.
Festival organizers have reported an increase in ticket sales since the lineup announcement, with many eager to see Alade perform live.
“Yemi Alade represents everything that WOMADelaide stands for—cultural diversity, musical excellence, and global unity,” said festival director Ian Scobie. “Her music connects people across continents, and we are thrilled to have her headline this year.”
As the festival approaches, anticipation is at an all-time high, with fans from Australia and beyond gearing up for an unforgettable weekend of music, culture, and celebration.
With Yemi Alade at the helm, WOMADelaide 2025 is set to be a groundbreaking edition, proving once again that music has no borders.
