Where to Find the Best Jazz, Afrobeats, and Highlife Performances in Nigeria

Nigeria is a melting pot of rich musical traditions, and no genres capture this essence better than jazz, Afrobeats, and highlife. From the rhythmic grooves of Afrobeats to the soulful melodies of jazz and the nostalgic tunes of highlife, live performances in Nigeria are nothing short of magical.

If you’re searching for the best jazz, Afrobeats, and highlife performances in Nigeria outside the usual Lagos and Abuja hotspots, you’re in for a treat! This guide highlights the top venues and events in other vibrant cities where you can enjoy these genres.

 

Best Places to Find Jazz, Afrobeats, and Highlife Performances in Nigeria

 

1. Enugu: The Heartbeat of Highlife

Enugu, fondly known as the ‘Coal City,’ has a deep-rooted love for highlife music, making it a top destination for some of Nigeria’s best jazz, Afrobeats, and highlife performances.

• Okpara Square Events

Okpara Square in Enugu often serves as a venue for concerts and cultural events, including highlife and Afrobeats performances. You might catch a thrilling live session featuring some of the region’s top artists if you’re lucky.

• Polo Park Mall

Polo Park Mall is not just a shopping centre; it occasionally hosts live music events where highlife and jazz musicians entertain crowds. If you’re in Enugu and looking for an open-air venue with great vibes, this is the place to be.

 

2. Cross River: Where Culture Meets Music

Cross River State, particularly Calabar, is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant music scene. If you’re looking for the best jazz, Afrobeats, and highlife performances in Nigeria, this state has plenty to offer.

• Tinapa Lakeside Hotel

For a luxurious experience with great live music, Tinapa Lakeside Hotel is a top spot. The venue hosts highlife and jazz nights, attracting music lovers from all over the country.

• Marina Resort, Calabar

Marina Resort is not just a tourist attraction but also an excellent venue for live music. It regularly hosts jazz and highlife performances, making it one of Calabar’s best places to enjoy live music.

• Calabar Christmas Festival

The Calabar Christmas Festival is one of Nigeria’s biggest cultural events. It features electrifying performances from top Afrobeats and highlife musicians. This month-long celebration is a fantastic opportunity to experience Nigeria’s best jazz, Afrobeats, and highlife performances.

 

3. Port Harcourt: The City of Rhythms and Music

Port Harcourt, a city known for producing legendary musicians, is home to several venues that showcase Nigeria’s best jazz, Afrobeats, and highlife performances.

• The Boss Lounge

This stylish lounge is another great spot where live music thrives. With performances from both rising and established artists, The Boss Lounge guarantees an enjoyable night out filled with top-tier jazz, Afrobeats, and highlife music.

• Aztec Arcum Events Centre

If you’re looking for bigger concerts featuring some of Nigeria’s top musicians, Aztec Arcum Events Centre is a significant venue in Port Harcourt. Many highlife and Afrobeats concerts are held here, drawing large crowds eager to experience Nigeria’s best jazz, Afrobeats, and highlife performances.

• Ediz Wine Bar

Ediz Wine Bar is a go-to spot for music lovers who appreciate intimate live performances. The venue regularly features highlife and jazz bands, offering an excellent space to enjoy Nigeria’s best jazz, Afrobeats, and highlife performances.

 

4. Ogun State: Home to Musical Legends

Ogun State has produced many legendary musicians and remains a great place to enjoy Nigeria’s best jazz, Afrobeats, and highlife performances.

• Green Legacy Resort, Abeokuta

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo owns Green Legacy Resort, which often hosts live jazz and highlife performances. It’s an ideal location for those who appreciate good music in a relaxed setting.

• June 12 Cultural Centre, Abeokuta

This cultural centre is home to many musical events, especially those celebrating Nigeria’s rich highlife heritage. If you’re in Ogun State, it’s a great place to catch live performances.

READ MORE:

• Exploring Afrobeat Culture Beyond Music: Fashion, Dance & Nightlife
• Afrobeats vs Afropop: Understanding the Key Differences Between Two Global Music Phenomena
• From Street to Stage: The Best Live Performance Venues in Nigeria
• Discover Nigeria’s Diverse Music Genres: Afrobeat, Highlife, and More

 

5. Anambra: The Land of Cultural Vibrancy

Anambra State is a cultural hotspot where traditional and contemporary music blend seamlessly. If you’re looking for some of Nigeria’s best jazz, Afrobeats, and highlife performances, Anambra is a great place to explore.

• Soprom Hotel and Suites, Awka

Soprom Hotel and Suites hosts regular live music nights, during which jazz and highlife musicians perform. The relaxed setting and great music make it one of the best places to experience jazz and highlife in Anambra.

 

Music Festivals You Shouldn’t Miss

Apart from visiting these venues, attending music festivals is one of the best ways to experience Nigeria’s best jazz, Afrobeats, and highlife performances.

1. Felabration (Held in Lagos)

Felabration is an annual music festival dedicated to the legacy of Fela Kuti, the pioneer of Afrobeats. It takes place in Lagos, primarily at the New Afrika Shrine, featuring electrifying performances from top Nigerian and international artists. While Lagos is the main hub, some music venues in other cities may host independent events in honour of Fela during the festival period.

2. Highlife Fest (Held in the East)

Highlife Fest celebrates the rich history of highlife music. Held in various eastern states, it is a must-attend for fans of classic Nigerian music.

3. Calabar Carnival and Festival

Calabar Carnival is a world-famous festival that combines culture and music, with performances from top Afrobeats and highlife musicians. It’s one of the biggest annual events in Nigeria and a great place to experience incredible live performances.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are There Music Festivals Dedicated to Highlife in Nigeria?

Yes! Highlife Fest is one of the biggest festivals celebrating highlife music, mainly held in the eastern region of Nigeria. Many cultural events in Anambra and Enugu also feature highlife performances.

2. Where Can I Experience a Mix of Jazz, Afrobeats, and Highlife in One Event?

Festivals like Felabration, Highlife Fest, and the Calabar Carnival feature a mix of all three genres, showcasing Nigeria’s diverse musical heritage.

3. Is Afrobeat More Popular Than Highlife in Nigeria?

Afrobeats is currently more popular among younger audiences, but highlife remains a significant part of Nigeria’s cultural and musical heritage, especially in the southeastern and south-south regions.

 

Final Thoughts

Nigeria offers countless opportunities to enjoy the best jazz, Afrobeats, and highlife performances if you love live music. Cities like Enugu, Port Harcourt, Anambra, Cross River, and Ogun have thriving music scenes. 

From intimate jazz lounges to grand music festivals, there’s no shortage of excellent performances to enjoy, whether you’re a jazz enthusiast, an Afrobeats lover, or a highlife fan.

These destinations guarantee an unforgettable experience. Now, it’s time to explore and soak in the magic of Nigeria’s live music scene!