Tems, Ayra Starr Thrill Fans at Afro Plus Fest in Maryland

Tems and Ayra Starr delivered two of the most talked-about performances of the weekend as Afro Plus Fest 2026 brought together some of the biggest names in African music for a three-day celebration of Afrobeats, dancehall and global Black culture.

Held over Labor Day weekend at Northwest Stadium Complex in Landover, Maryland, the festival drew thousands of music lovers from across the United States and beyond. The 2026 edition featured an all-star lineup led by Wizkid, Davido, Tems, Ayra Starr and Jamaican dancehall heavyweight Alkaline, making it one of the strongest African festival bills of the year.

Tems captivated the crowd with her signature blend of soulful vocals and atmospheric R&B, performing fan favourites that transformed the packed venue into a sing-along. Her commanding stage presence and live musicianship earned loud ovations throughout the night, reinforcing her reputation as one of Africa’s most acclaimed live performers.

Ayra Starr matched that energy with a vibrant, dance-filled set that showcased her evolution from breakout star to international headliner. The Mavin Records singer had fans chanting along to her biggest hits as she combined choreography, fashion and infectious Afropop rhythms in a performance that became one of the festival’s defining moments.

Festival organisers said the addition of Tems and Ayra Starr expanded an already impressive lineup, reflecting the growing influence of African female artists in shaping the global music landscape. Their inclusion alongside Wizkid and Davido also highlighted the remarkable depth of Nigeria’s contemporary music scene, with multiple generations of stars sharing the same stage.

Afro Plus Fest returned after a successful debut last year and has quickly established itself as a major destination for African music in North America. Beyond concerts, the event celebrates African fashion, food, art and entrepreneurship, creating a cultural experience that extends well beyond live performances.

As Afrobeats continues to fill stadiums and headline international festivals, performances like those of Tems and Ayra Starr demonstrate how African artists are no longer emerging voices—they are now central figures shaping the future of global popular music.