Converse Rules Summer At Afro Nation 2024: Celebrating Amapiano & Afro Beats

Afro Nation 2024 was a musical extravaganza that brought together a vibrant mix of talents from across the globe, with a particular spotlight on the diverse and dynamic music scene of Africa. The festival, renowned for its celebration of Afro Beats and Amapiano, saw enthusiastic crowds gathering to witness electrifying performances by global superstars and rising stars alike.

The festival's major draws were global superstar headliners Nicki Minaj, Rema, and Asake. Each artist delivered unforgettable performances that had the crowd dancing and singing along into the early hours of the morning. Nicki Minaj's set was a tour de force of her greatest hits, blending her dynamic rap verses with multiple outfit changes and her major hits. Rema, known for his infectious melodies and innovative style, captivated fans with a setlist that showcased his versatility and energy. His set ended with the performance of his single ‘Calm Down’, after being presented Rema with a 7x platinum disc to honour his recent achievement of becoming the world’s first Afrobeats artist to reach a billion on-demand streams in the US. Asake’s performance established himself as a must-see talent in the Afro Beats scene, he brought his unique sound and charisma to the stage, leaving a lasting impression on all who witnessed his performance, He heated up the Lit Stage on the opening night with a flamethrower and a stellar live band, A very headline worthy showcase from his stage design to the transitions in his show and dense set list that kept the crowd engaged from start to finish. One of the all time great performers at Afro Nation.

The Amapiano stage at the festival was a collaborative effort between Piano People and Converse, a hub of energy and excitement. For three days straight, DJs and MCs kept the crowd moving to the pulsating beats of Amapiano. Converse seized this opportunity to highlight their iconic brand by making their presence felt with Converse imagery and integrating the brand's identity with the festival’s lively atmosphere. Chuck Taylor’s are a favourite among festival goers for their style and durability as they proved perfect for the non-stop dancing and stage-hopping that characterized the festival experience. 

Over the decades, the Converse Chuck Taylor has been a constant presence at music festivals worldwide. From Woodstock in the 1960s to the modern-day Coachella, Glastonbury, and now Afro Nation. Festival-goers have relied on Chuck Taylors for their classic style. The shoe's ability to endure long hours of dancing, walking, and braving the elements has made it an essential part of the festival experience. Their ability to adapt to various styles and settings, from muddy fields to sun-soaked beaches, ensures that they remain a beloved choice for attendees who value style.

Backstage access for performers and select guests was another highlight of the Converse takeover. Artists like Kamo, performing in custom Converse sneakers, and Yung Stunna, showcasing unreleased Converse footwear, to match their unique looks on stage. Afro Nation was a haven for individual style, especially with the talent on show as well as attendees.

Since its inception in 1917, the Chuck Taylor has transcended its original purpose as a basketball shoe to become a cultural icon. Its versatile design, featuring a simple canvas upper and rubber sole, has made it a favorite across various subcultures, from punk rockers to skateboarders. This same versatility and durability have cemented its status as a festival staple, where style and practicality go hand in hand.

A festival known for its high-energy performances and lively atmosphere, dancers on the Piano People stage were also spotted in Converse, dazzling the audience with their relentless energy and hypnotic moves. The stage featured show-stopping sets from renowned DJs such as Justin99, Tumelo Za, Uncle Waffles, and Skyla Tylaa. Their performances were accompanied by a sea of flags from across Africa, symbolizing the unity and diversity that Afro Nation celebrates.

The shoe's classic design complemented the vibrant and eclectic fashion seen at the festival, against the backdrop of the beautiful Portimão coastline blending seamlessly with the diverse styles of attendees. From bold, colorful prints to minimalist chic outfits and swimsuits. 

Converse's latest 'Rule Summer' campaign has been making waves with its vibrant celebration of summer style and adventure. This campaign emphasizes the timeless appeal and versatility of the Converse Chuck Taylor, positioning it as the go-to shoe for summer activities. With a focus on bold colors, carefree spirit, and youthful energy. New Wave conducted an editorial shoot that captured the essence of the 'Rule Summer' campaign amidst the festival’s lively setting. This vibrant lifestyle shoot placed the iconic Converse Chuck Taylor centre stage against the stunning backdrop of Afro Nation.

The festival's dynamic atmosphere, brimming with music, dance, and cultural expression, echoed the campaign's themes of vibrancy and adventure. Converse capitalized on this synergy by not only activating the Amapiano stage but also ensuring that their iconic Chuck Taylor were omnipresent throughout the festival, with the campaign also seen on the ‘Lit’ main stage.

The now established Afro music festival is setting a successful example for the next generation of destination festivals. Living up to its inclusive tagline, "together we move," the festival is creating a global movement for the African diaspora and acts as a unifying force of positivity.