Spotify has launched Greasy Tunes Café in Lagos, a three-week pop-up celebrating the bond between Nigerian food, music, and culture
The experiential café is designed to connect culinary delights with Afrobeats, giving visitors a unique taste of Nigeria’s cultural identity.
The launch, held on Tuesday night, featured immersive activities that highlighted Spotify’s commitment to supporting creatives and local storytelling in Nigeria.
Bea Theron, Experiential Marketing Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa at Spotify, explained that the concept was inspired by new Spotify data showing that for Nigerian Gen Z, music and food remain central to daily life, with Afrobeats dominating their playlists.
She said the café would allow customers to order local Nigerian meals and instantly receive a personalised Spotify playlist or podcast curated in real-time, based on their food selections.
Theron stressed that the initiative was more than just entertainment, but also a cultural strategy.
“Tonight proves the power of the youth as they build the culture here in Nigeria. The Greasy Tunes Café is our future-facing model, blending the force of Afrobeats with the authenticity of local cuisine. This isn’t just a party; it’s a strategic move to establish the new cultural future of Lagos,” she said.
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Victor Okpala, Spotify’s Artist and Label Partnership Manager for West Africa, said the café would serve as both a launchpad for local talent and a centre for education.
He disclosed plans to spotlight diverse emerging artistes such as Fola and Adekunle Gold, alongside educational initiatives, including an October 11 screening of a documentary on Afro-Nigerian Afro-funk and the Eyo masquerade.
Okpala emphasised that these efforts underscored Spotify’s commitment to celebrating Nigeria’s rich cultural and musical heritage.
Artistes also shared their perspectives at the launch. Folarin Odunlami, popularly known as Fola, noted that his journey in Afrobeats had been far from overnight, stressing that determination and hard work remained key to success.
“The love I’m receiving fuels me, and my goal is clear: I’m going to take Afrobeats to the next level,” he said.
South African artiste, Thakzin, highlighted the emotional depth behind his music, stating that rhythm must reflect real-time feelings if it is to resonate with audiences.
The event drew influencers, podcasters, music artistes, and fans, creating the perfect atmosphere for Spotify’s latest cultural experience.
NAN
