Ahmed Ololade, the Nigerian Afrobeats sensation known as Asake, added another feather to his cap with a special appearance at a Major League Soccer (MLS) match between the New York Red Bulls and Columbus Crew. The artist, renowned for his infectious rhythms and captivating stage presence, was invited as the guest of honour for the Sunday fixture, taking center stage for the pre-game coin toss. This symbolic act placed Asake at the heart of the sporting event, bridging the worlds of music and soccer in a unique cross-cultural moment. His presence underscored the growing global influence of Afrobeats and its ability to transcend traditional entertainment boundaries.
Asake documented his MLS experience through social media, sharing photos and videos of the event on his Instagram account. The images captured the singer amidst the match officials, poised to flip the ceremonial coin that would determine the kickoff. The accompanying caption, “Asake music gives you wings,” echoed the uplifting and energetic nature of his music, suggesting a parallel between the soaring melodies of his songs and the athletic prowess displayed on the soccer field. The stadium’s sound system amplified this connection by playing one of Asake’s hit singles during the pre-game ceremony, immersing the crowd in his vibrant musical world. The shared experience created a memorable atmosphere, fusing the energy of a live sporting event with the infectious rhythm of Afrobeats.
The ceremonial coin toss wasn’t the only interaction Asake had with the participants of the match. Footage from the event reveals him exchanging handshakes with the captains of both teams, a gesture of sportsmanship and mutual respect. Further solidifying his connection to the event, Asake posed for photographs with the match officials, commemorating his role in the day’s proceedings. These interactions highlighted the significance of his presence and the recognition he received from the sporting community. It also demonstrated the unifying power of both music and sports, bringing individuals from different spheres together for a shared experience.
Beyond the formalities of the coin toss and official photographs, Asake engaged in a more casual interaction that further showcased his connection to the world of soccer. He was captured pitch-side juggling a soccer ball, demonstrating a playful familiarity with the sport. This impromptu display caught the attention of Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, the veteran Cameroonian international, who watched Asake’s ball skills with apparent interest. The two later engaged in a brief conversation and handshake, a moment of connection between two prominent figures from different realms of entertainment and sport. This spontaneous interaction added a touch of personal connection to Asake’s MLS experience.
Asake’s appearance at the MLS match represents a significant milestone in his rapidly ascending career. His journey began with the release of the single “Lady” in 2020, a track that marked his entry into the Nigerian music scene. This early success paved the way for his signing with YBNL Nation, the prominent record label founded by Nigerian rapper Olamide, in February 2022. This partnership proved to be a pivotal moment in Asake’s trajectory, providing him with the platform and resources to amplify his music to a wider audience.
Since joining YBNL Nation, Asake’s output has been prolific, releasing three studio albums in quick succession: “Mr Money With The Vibes” (2022), “Work of Art” (2023), and “Lungu Boy” (2024). Each album has further solidified his standing within the Afrobeats genre and broadened his international appeal. His consistent release of high-quality music, coupled with his captivating stage presence, has earned him widespread recognition and a devoted fan base. This culminated in a Grammy nomination in the Best African Music Performance category in 2025, a testament to his growing global influence and the impact of his music on the international stage. His presence at the MLS game, then, is not just a singular event, but a marker of his continued journey to international stardom.
