Nigerian music sensations Asake and Ayra Starr have been announced as part of the headline acts for the highly anticipated Summer Jam 2025 concert.
The annual event, organized by HOT 97, New York’s premier station for Hip-Hop, is renowned for bringing together global superstars for an electrifying summer showcase.
This year’s edition promises an unforgettable experience, with an exciting lineup of top-tier talent set to take the stage at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, on June 20, 2025.
Joining Asake and Ayra Starr on the star-studded bill are a mix of some of the biggest names in music. The lineup includes hip-hop heavyweights such as A Boogie, Gunna, and GloRilla, alongside the soulful R&B powerhouse Muni Long.
In addition, there will be a special tribute segment titled Ja Rule and Friends: A Tribute to Irv Gotti, celebrating the legacy of the legendary producer. The show will also feature must-see performances from Kash Doll, Bobby Konders & Jabba featuring Masicka, Jim Jones & Friends, Cash Cobain, and 41 (Kyle Rich, Jenn Carter, and Tata), among others.
Speaking about the significance of the concert, Shelby Joyner, Founder of SJ Presents and President of The Black Promoters Collective, emphasized its cultural impact. “Summer Jam is the pinnacle of Hip-Hop culture, and we’re honored to bring this electrifying experience to fans once again,” Joyner stated.
“This year’s lineup is a testament to the genre’s evolution, featuring both chart-topping superstars and rising talent who are shaping the future of Hip-Hop.” With a blend of established icons and fresh faces, the event is set to celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of contemporary music.
For Asake, this marks yet another major summer festival appearance, solidifying his status as one of the biggest African artists on the global stage. He was recently confirmed as a headliner for the prestigious Yardland Festival in France, where he will perform alongside international stars such as American rapper Latto, Belgian sensation Hamza, and French hitmaker Tiakola.
His presence at both events is a testament to his growing influence and crossover appeal in the global music scene.
Asake’s 2025 campaign is already shaping up to be a remarkable one. Earlier this year, he secured his second career nomination at the 67th Grammy Awards, further cementing his reputation as one of Africa’s most dynamic exports.
His impact has also been recognized on the home front, with the Lonely at the Top crooner earning six nominations at the upcoming 17th Headies Awards, including Album of the Year and Song of the Year.
With the ceremony scheduled for April 27, Asake will be aiming to claim his second consecutive Album of the Year award, an achievement that would further underscore his dominance in the Nigerian music industry.
For Ayra Starr, this is another major step in her meteoric rise to global fame. The Rush hitmaker continues to make waves internationally, proving that Afrobeats is a powerful force in contemporary music. Her inclusion in the Summer Jam lineup highlights her growing popularity and her ability to captivate audiences beyond Africa.
With both Asake and Ayra Starr representing Nigeria on such a prestigious platform, Summer Jam 2025 is set to be a landmark event showcasing the undeniable influence of African music on the global stage.
