Jesse King Bùgá honoured at star-studded Rebirth Concert in Lagos (photos)

The Civic Centre in Victoria Island was a vibrant display of colour, rhythm, and nostalgia on Sunday, October 19, 2025, as Nigerian Highlife legend Jesse King, affectionately known as Bùgá, hosted the highly anticipated “Rebirth Concert.”

This event celebrated over two decades of musical brilliance and cultural impact.

The concert, aptly themed “Back to Highlife – The Rhythm of Our Culture,” attracted a remarkable turnout of personalities from Nigeria’s entertainment and business sectors.

Notable attendees included filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, media mogul D1 Adeneye, music veteran Seyi Shodimu, broadcaster Kenny Saint Brown, and entertainment executive Wale Oluwaleimu. They joined hundreds of fans and industry colleagues to honour the enduring artistry of Jesse King.

Sponsored by the Lagos Commodities and Futures Exchange (LCFE)/Eko Rice, Optimus Bank, and Providus Bank, the concert emphasised the importance of corporate support in preserving Nigeria’s musical heritage.

From the moment guests arrived at the prestigious Civic Centre, they were immersed in an atmosphere rich in cultural pride.

The venue was adorned with traditional motifs and elegant decor, providing a fitting backdrop for an evening devoted to celebrating the essence of Nigerian Highlife.

The night began with energetic performances from a lineup of talented acts, including Veentage Band, Sammy, Peter De Rock, Most Precious, Ibitayo Jeje, Yemmy TPX, and Judeworldstar. These artists set the tone with electrifying renditions that seamlessly blended traditional rhythms with contemporary flair.

When Jesse King finally took the stage, the crowd erupted in applause. Dressed in his signature Yoruba-inspired attire, Bùgá delivered a soul-stirring performance that transported the audience through time, revisiting classics that defined the golden era of Highlife while introducing refreshed sounds that symbolised his artistic evolution.

In his remarks, Jesse King shared the inspiration behind The Rebirth Concert, stating, “This concert is to bridge the gap between the old and the new Bùgá; it blends depth, wisdom, and lyrical genius with contemporary influences. It’s about keeping our culture alive through music.”

The event’s success was also attributed to Lawunmi Osode, the founder of LA Luxxe Events. Her team executed the production with exceptional attention to detail. Known for curating premium events, Osode ensured that guests enjoyed a luxurious, seamless experience, complete with fine dining, exquisite lighting, and a sound system that enhanced every note and beat of the night.

She reaffirmed her commitment to excellence by stating, “Our goal was to create not just a concert but a luxurious cultural experience. The Rebirth Concert reflects the beauty of Nigerian tradition wrapped in modern sophistication.”

Beyond the music and glamour, the evening showcased Jesse King’s unwavering dedication to promoting Nigerian Highlife—a genre that continues to influence modern Afrobeat, Afropop, and world music.

As the curtain fell, one message resonated clearly: The Rebirth Concert was not just a musical performance; it was a revival of cultural pride, a celebration of legacy, and a reminder of the timeless power of Highlife music in uniting generations.

For fans who missed the live experience, updates, highlights, and exclusive content are available via Jesse King’s official pages, @officialbuga and @laluxxe_events.

Indeed, Jesse King’s “Rebirth Concert” was more than an event; it was history set to rhythm.

See more photos from the event below: