In a surprising yet electrifying move, Louis Vuitton’s Men’s Spring-Summer 2025 show in Paris on June 18th, 2024, featured Adekunle Gold’s hit song “Falling Up” as the closing track. This unexpected choice sent shockwaves through the fashion world, marking a significant moment for Afrobeats’ global reach and cultural impact.
A Star-Studded Event:
The Louis Vuitton show, held outdoors on the turf-lined runway at UNESCO headquarters, was a star-studded affair. Curated by none other than Pharrell Williams, the event attracted a who’s who of the fashion and music industries. Among the attendees were Nigerian superstars like Wizkid, Burna Boy, Rema, and Tems, making Adekunle Gold’s presence even more significant.
A Song of Collaboration and Triumph:
Falling Up,” released in 2023 as part of Adekunle Gold’s critically acclaimed album “Tequila Ever After,” features Grammy-winning collaborators Pharrell Williams and Nile Rodgers. The song’s infectious energy, blend of soulful vocals and Afrobeat rhythms, and message of perseverance resonated perfectly with the energy of the Louis Vuitton show.
Breaking Barriers:
The inclusion of “Falling Up” marks a significant step forward for Afrobeats’ global recognition. Long considered a dominant force in Africa, the genre is now breaking into the mainstream consciousness on a worldwide scale. Louis Vuitton, a luxury fashion house synonymous with Parisian elegance, featuring an Afrobeats song as its closing act, is a powerful symbol of this cultural shift.
A Fashion Show with Afrobeats Flair:
The choice to use “Falling Up” wasn’t simply a matter of music selection. Pharrell Williams, the show’s curator and a collaborator on the song, is known for pushing boundaries and celebrating global sounds. The Louis Vuitton collection itself, with its vibrant colors and bold patterns, echoed the dynamism and energy of Afrobeats. The entire presentation, from the music to the fashion, became a celebration of global cultural fusion.
A Spotlight on Nigerian Talent:
The inclusion of “Falling Up” also shines a light on the incredible talent emerging from Nigeria’s music scene. Adekunle Gold, along with his fellow Nigerian stars in attendance, represent a generation of artists pushing Afrobeats to new heights. This recognition by Louis Vuitton elevates not just Adekunle Gold, but the entire Afrobeats movement.
A Bridge Between Cultures:
The use of “Falling Up” creates a bridge between cultures, sparking conversations about fashion, music, and the interconnectedness of the global creative landscape. It opens doors for future collaborations between Afrobeats artists and luxury fashion brands, potentially leading to exciting new fusions of sound and style.
Beyond the Runway:
The impact of “Falling Up” at the Louis Vuitton show goes beyond the fashion world. It serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists across Africa. Seeing one of their own featured on such a prestigious platform sends a powerful message: Afrobeats belongs on the global stage, and its influence is undeniable.
The Future of Afrobeats:
The inclusion of “Falling Up” in the Louis Vuitton show marks a pivotal moment in Afrobeats’ journey. It signifies the genre’s growing global presence and its potential to continue breaking down cultural barriers. With artists like Adekunle Gold leading the charge, Afrobeats is poised to dominate the music scene for years to come. One thing is certain: the world is listening, and the future of Afrobeats is bright.
