By Mark Ogagan
Nigeria’s Afro beats superstar, Davido is set to join up with other renowned music icons for the official concert that heralds the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco.
French Montana, the US-based rapper born in Morocco, will headline the show in what organisers describe as a symbolic homecoming. The artist has built a massive global following with chart-topping albums such as Excuse My French and Jungle Rules, and international hits including Unforgettable, which has earned billions of streams.
Nigerian superstar Davido will also take centre stage in Rabat. One of Africa’s most influential modern artists, he has shaped the rise of Afrobeats internationally through acclaimed albums A Good Time, A Better Time and Timeless.
The major musical spectacle brings together global stars for the high-profile concert to be held at the OLM Souissi Fan Zone in Rabat on Saturday, 20 December.
Other expected are Morocco’s rising star Douaa Lahyaoui, the rapidly emerging Says’z and the hugely popular Lartiste.
Organisers say the concert, which begins at 18h00 local time, reflects their aim of promoting African unity, creativity and youth, one day before the continent’s biggest sporting event kicks off.
A regular presence at major award ceremonies such as the BET Awards and Billboard Music Awards, French Montana brings global visibility to the opening celebrations and is expected to deliver one of the most high-profile performances of the evening.
Moroccan singer Douaa Lahyaoui has become one of the country’s most prominent young talents, blending pop, urban influences and Moroccan identity. Her songs have amassed tens of millions of views online, and she has already appeared at several major international events.
Her participation in the opening festivities is intended to highlight Morocco’s cultural dynamism and promote home-grown talent on a global stage.
Says’z: rising star with a modern urban sound
Says’z, known for his blend of rap, urban pop and African contemporary influences, is one of the most rapidly emerging names on digital platforms. With a strong social media following and energetic live performances, he represents a new wave of African artists connected to global trends while maintaining strong cultural roots.
He is expected to bring high tempo and youthful energy to the Rabat fan zone.
Franco-Moroccan artist Lartiste adds further diversity to the line-up. Known for mixing genres, languages and cultures, he has produced several gold and platinum-selling singles and albums, amassing hundreds of millions of views across Africa, Europe and the Middle East.
His performance aligns with AFCON 2025’s broader vision: a tournament built on diversity, exchange and shared experience.
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