Rema and Central Cee Set the Eko Convention Centre Ablaze at Rhythm Unplugged 2025
Last night, the Eko Convention Centre transformed into the epicenter of the global Afrobeats movement as the 21st edition of Coca-Cola Rhythm Unplugged kicked off Flytime Fest 2025. The 21st Coca-Cola Rhythm Unplugged was a high-stakes demonstration of why Lagos remains the undisputed entertainment capital of Africa. Now in its 21st year, West Africa’s longest-running concert series once again transformed the venue into a pulsating crossroads of sound, where Nigerian innovation collided spectacularly with international flair.
Headliner Rema, the Benin-born architect of Afro-rave, delivered a performance that felt like a coronation. Fresh off a year of total chart dominance, Rema’s set was a masterclass in stagecraft. Emerging amidst a haze of pyrotechnics and cinematic visuals, the “Rave Lord” navigated his discography with the precision of a veteran. From the dark, brooding textures of his sophomore album ‘Heis’ to the unavoidable euphoria of “Calm Down”.
He ignited mass sing-alongs with deeper cuts such as “Charm”, “Why”, and “Soundgasm”, reminding attendees of his deep range as an artist. The energy peaked during collaborations: a raucous “Benin Boys” reunion with Shallipopi, celebrating shared Edo roots, and moments of pure crowd euphoria. Rema’s commitment to excellence elevated the night, creating an atmosphere so thick with vibes, you could slice through it like butter.
Yet Rhythm Unplugged’s magic lay in its eclectic supporting headliner, a deliberate fusion that mirrored Afrobeats’ boundary-blurring ethos. The night’s narrative was built on a bridge between the UK and Nigeria. Central Cee, arguably the UK’s most potent cultural export right now, brought his “Wild West” energy to the Lagos stage. Clad in his signature streetwear, the West London rapper proved that his flow translates perfectly to a Nigerian crowd, with the room erupting word-for-word for “Sprinter” and “Doja”.
The undercard pulsed with Naija’s current vanguard: BNXN provided the melodic soul of the evening, offering a smooth counterpoint to the night’s high-octane rap sets; Odumodublvck’s set (highlighted by a generous moment gifting his wristwatch to a fan during “Cast” with Shallipopi) delivered a rugged, high-intensity performance that solidified his position as the bridge between Nigerian rap and the mainstream; and Shallipopi’s Plutomania energy (joined by brothers Zerry DL and Famous Pluto for “Ewo”). Rhythm Unplugged has always been a springboard for the “next up”, and last night showcased the sheer depth of the current scene, including body-moving performances from artists like Moliy, Chella, Fola, Mavo, Shoday, SMADA, and Zerrydl.
However, for those inside, Flytime Promotions delivered on the promise of luxury. The production value—LED architecture, crystal-clear acoustics, and seamless transitions—set a standard that few other festivals on the continent can match.
Twenty-one years in, Coca-Cola Rhythm Unplugged has evolved from a variety show into a sleek, international-grade festival. While the barrier to entry is higher than ever, the cultural payoff is undeniable. Last night at the Eko Convention Centre was a statement of intent for the rest of the 2025 festive season.
