In this episode of Martell’s Swift Conversations, pioneering entrepreneur, cultural curator and Afro pop ambassador King Smade joins Martell Cultural Ambassador Adesope Olajide to reflect on the global rise of Afrobeats and African pop culture. From growing up in Lagos to becoming a key architect of Afrobeats’ international breakthrough, King Smade shares how belief, persistence and community helped build a movement now filling arenas, stadiums and festival grounds worldwide. He reflects on supporting artists like Wizkid and Davido early on, and the risks taken to elevate a once-overlooked sound. Together, they explore Afrobeats’ evolution from intimate club shows to global stages, the creation and impact of Afro Nation, and the importance of sustainable infrastructure, cultural ownership and authentic storytelling in shaping a lasting legacy.
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