Nigerian superstar Asake’s collaboration with British rapper Central Cee has earned a spot on the NBA 2K25 Season 2 soundtrack. Their song “Wave,” which is featured on Asake’s third album Lungu Boy, is included on the soundtrack alongside tracks from American artists such as Key Glock and Lil Pete.
As the only Afrobeats artist on the album, Asake continues the trend of Afrobeats’ presence in the popular basketball video game, following Adekunle Gold’s “Party No Dey Stop” featuring Zinoleesky, which was part of the NBA 2K24 soundtrack.
This inclusion highlights the increasing international recognition of Afrobeats and its influence on global pop culture.
Asake joins a select group of Nigerian artists who have been featured on the NBA 2K soundtrack, including Adekunle Gold and Burna Boy. His presence on the album reinforces his status as a global Afrobeats star and reflects the growing visibility of Nigerian pop music in mainstream entertainment.
NBA 2K’s choice to feature Asake’s music in its soundtrack showcases the game’s commitment to embracing diverse musical genres and giving a platform to artists who have a significant cultural impact. The 2024 version of the game has sold over 9 million units, indicating the immense reach and influence of its soundtrack.
Since breaking into the mainstream music scene in 2022, Asake has established himself as one of Afrobeats’ most prolific hitmakers, achieving commercial success with a string of chart-topping and record-breaking songs.
His meteoric rise has been marked by his ability to deliver infectious hits that resonate with a global audience. His inclusion in NBA 2K25 further solidifies his reputation as an international superstar, representing not only Nigeria but the entire Afrobeats movement on a global stage.
Asake recently wrapped up his “Lungu Boy” tour, where he performed at and sold out prestigious venues such as Madison Square Garden, Toyota Arena, TD Garden, and Capital One Arena. His accomplishments include becoming only the third Nigerian artist to headline London’s iconic O2 Arena, cementing his place among the elite Nigerian musicians who have achieved significant milestones in international music.
These successful performances reflect his growing influence and appeal, showcasing the demand for Afrobeats across the world.
Asake’s inclusion on the NBA 2K25 soundtrack and his tour achievements highlight the rapid global expansion of Afrobeats, which continues to make waves in the international music scene.
His accomplishments contribute to the broader narrative of Nigerian artists breaking barriers and reaching new audiences, further elevating the genre’s profile.
The recognition from platforms like NBA 2K affirms the genre’s increasing prominence and Asake’s role as a leading figure in bringing Afrobeats to a worldwide audience.
