The excitement for AKON’s The Superfan Tour began to build on December 2, as the press conference unfolded at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The event served as a platform for Akon, along with his co-artists Ez Mil and Lucas, to share insights about the tour and their thoughts on performing in Manila. Akon, the global music icon, delighted fans by announcing the February release of his upcoming album Not Guilty. Sharing his journey and greatest accomplishments, Akon fondly recalled his collaboration with Michael Jackson, describing it as the pinnacle of his career. “When I began, I thought I could never reach those heights,” he said, expressing gratitude for his musical journey. When asked about succeeding in the music industry, Akon emphasized authenticity, advising, “Be yourself.”
Ez Mil, one of the most anticipated artists on the tour, expressed his excitement about sharing the stage with his idols. “I’ve been listening to Gloc-9 and Akon my whole life,” he revealed, highlighting his deep admiration for these music legends. Meanwhile, Lucas, known for his electrifying performances, brought a lighthearted tone to the press conference. He charmed the audience by showcasing his newly learned Filipino words, such as “Mahal kita” and “Pogi,” drawing laughter and applause from the attendees. Lucas also shared that he had researched his co-artists and was thrilled to perform alongside such talented individuals.
On December 3, the buzz continued with the Pre-show Fanzone & Meet & Greet at the same venue. The Fanzone created an interactive and inclusive space for fans, creators, and the local hip-pop community to connect with the artists. Attendees enjoyed a variety of activities, including autograph signings and photo opportunities with stars like Lucas, Ez Mil, and Viva Max artists. The event emphasized the community aspect of music, bringing together fans and creators who share a love for hip-hop and pop culture. This pre-show event added an intimate and personal touch to the tour, allowing fans to interact with their idols before the main concert.
As the clock struck, the concert proper began, and the energy inside the SM Mall of Asia Arena was palpable. Opening with a series of high-energy performances, the show set the tone for what would become one of the grandest musical events of the year. Local artists such as Pablo from SB19 and Gloc-9 captivated the audience with their dynamic sets, showcasing the richness of Filipino talent. Ez Mil took the stage next, delivering a memorable performance that combined his original tracks with covers of global hip-hop hits. His medley with Pablo, featuring their iconic songs “Panalo” and “Gento,” was a standout moment that left fans in awe.
When it was finally Akon’s turn to perform, the arena erupted in cheers. Dressed in an all-white ensemble, he began his set with his latest single, Beautiful Day, accompanied by breathtaking visuals. Akon performed a mix of his classic hits, including Don’t Matter, Lonely, and Smack That, as well as collaborative tracks like Bartender. His performance was a masterclass in showmanship, with Akon engaging the audience at every turn. From playing the bongos to taking selfies with fans, he made the evening unforgettable for everyone present.
Akon shared a heartfelt moment with the crowd, saying his current status in life could be summed up by the lyrics of his song Beautiful Day. He expressed gratitude for his fans and their role in shaping the lineup for The Superfan Tour. “I asked my fans who they wanted to see, and that’s how we came up with this amazing lineup,” Akon shared. The concert became a testament to the connection between artists and their supporters, highlighting the power of music to bring people together.
The evening was not only a musical extravaganza but also a showcase of Filipino pride, as local artists held their own alongside international stars. The collaboration between Akon, Ez Mil, Pablo, and Gloc-9 on Kaleidoscope World paid homage to the late Francis Magalona, cementing the concert’s place as a historic moment in the Philippine music scene. The synergy between the artists and the crowd demonstrated the universal language of music, bridging cultures and generations.
The concert was a resounding success, living up to its promise as the grandest “Hip-Pop” experience of the year. With its impressive lineup and seamless execution, the event solidified L-Squared Productions as a rising force in the live events industry. CEO Marco Llado hinted at bigger plans for 2025, teasing an expansion of their events portfolio to cater to audiences across the Philippines. “We’re grateful for the support of our fans and hardworking team,” Llado said, promising even greater experiences in the future.
As the final notes of Freedom echoed through the arena, fans left with memories of an unforgettable night. AKON’s The Superfan Tour was more than just a concert; it was a celebration of music, culture, and the unbreakable bond between artists and their fans. With its seamless blend of international and local talent, the event set a new benchmark for live music experiences in the Philippines.
This event was made possible by LSquared Productions.
