Obongjayar

Obongjayar Live at Electric Bristol

Get ready to be captivated as the enigmatic force of nature, Obongjayar, descends upon Electric Bristol for a truly unforgettable evening. On Saturday, 22 November 2025, prepare for a sonic journey that transcends genre and expectation, a testament to an artist at the zenith of his creative powers. This isn’t just a gig; it’s an immersion into a world of vibrant sounds, compelling narratives, and a performance that pulses with raw, unadulterated energy. Obongjayar’s return to Bristol promises to be an electrifying experience, a chance to witness firsthand the artist who has been steadily reshaping the sonic landscape, drawing in a legion of devoted fans with his distinctive voice and profound artistry. This event is a celebration of innovation, a beacon for those seeking music that moves the soul and ignites the senses. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this momentous occasion.

About Obongjayar

Born in Nigeria and now a vital presence in the UK music scene, Obongjayar, real name Steven William Obongjayar Bamidele, has carved a unique path through the contemporary music world. His sound is an intricate tapestry woven from Afrobeats, soul, hip-hop, and experimental electronica, defying easy categorisation. From his early EPs like “Homebound” and “Bassey,” Obongjayar began to showcase his distinctive vocal delivery – a rich, resonant baritone that can shift from a soulful croon to a powerful, almost spoken-word intensity with breathtaking agility. His lyrics are often introspective, exploring themes of identity, displacement, belonging, and the complexities of modern life with a poetic grace.

Obongjayar’s rise has been marked by a series of critically acclaimed releases and a growing reputation for his electrifying live performances. His collaboration with the acclaimed producer and DJ, Little Simz, on her Mercury Prize-winning album “Sometimes I Might Be Introvert,” particularly on the track “Point and Kill,” brought him to a wider audience and cemented his status as a significant talent. This period saw his own burgeoning solo career gain significant momentum. His debut album, “Somehow,” released in 2023, was a masterclass in sonic exploration, blending infectious rhythms with deeply personal narratives. Tracks like the infectious and upbeat “I Wish It Was Me” and the introspective yet driving “Everything” have become fan favourites, showcasing his versatility and his knack for crafting songs that are both intellectually stimulating and viscerally engaging. Obongjayar isn’t afraid to experiment, pushing boundaries with his production choices and vocal arrangements, yet always grounding his music in a profound emotional core. His ability to seamlessly blend diverse musical influences into a cohesive and compelling sonic identity is what truly sets him apart.

Venue Information

Electric Bristol is renowned as one of the city’s premier live music venues, a space celebrated for its intimate atmosphere and exceptional sound system. Nestled in the heart of Bristol, it provides the perfect canvas for artists like Obongjayar to connect with their audience on a profound level. The venue’s commitment to showcasing diverse musical talent makes it an ideal setting for an artist who embodies innovation and authenticity. Its reputation for delivering high-quality live music experiences ensures that every performance held within its walls is a memorable one. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an evening that is as dynamic as Obongjayar himself. His live shows are renowned for their potent energy and unwavering authenticity. Expect a setlist that thoughtfully traverses his impressive catalogue, featuring beloved anthems alongside more recent explorations from “Somehow.” Tracks like the infectious groove of “I Wish It Was Me” are guaranteed to get the entire room moving, its infectious rhythms and celebratory spirit a perfect opener or mid-set highlight. The introspective yet powerful “Everything” will undoubtedly showcase Obongjayar’s vocal prowess and lyrical depth, creating moments of shared reflection and catharsis within the audience.

Beyond the hits, Obongjayar is known for his ability to weave narratives through his performance. He doesn’t just play songs; he crafts a journey, drawing the audience into his world with each carefully chosen word and sonic texture. His performance style is magnetic; he commands the stage with a natural charisma, his presence both commanding and deeply engaging. You can anticipate a show that is not only sonically rich, incorporating his signature blend of Afrobeats, soul, and experimental electronica, but also visually captivating. The interplay between his voice, the band, and the atmosphere created by the lighting and staging will culminate in a truly immersive experience. While setlist specifics are always a delightful surprise, Obongjayar’s live shows typically run for approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours, offering a substantial and fulfilling musical encounter. His performances are a testament to his artistry, a chance to witness a musician who is both a masterful storyteller and a captivating performer.

FAQs

Q1: Will Obongjayar be performing songs from his new album, “Somehow”? Absolutely. Obongjayar’s live sets are a vibrant celebration of his musical journey, and you can expect a significant focus on tracks from his critically acclaimed debut album, “Somehow.” Prepare to hear crowd favourites like “I Wish It Was Me” and “Everything” brought to life with the raw energy and passion that Obongjayar is celebrated for.

Q2: What kind of musical style can I expect from Obongjayar’s performance? Obongjayar is known for his genre-bending sound, a rich fusion of Afrobeats, soul, hip-hop, and experimental electronic influences. His live performance at Electric Bristol will showcase this unique blend, offering a dynamic and diverse sonic experience that is both globally inspired and deeply personal.

Q3: Is Obongjayar known for his audience interaction? Yes, Obongjayar possesses a captivating stage presence and is known for his ability to connect with his audience. While his performance is deeply immersive and focused on the music, he often creates moments of genuine interaction, drawing the crowd into the emotional landscape of his songs.

Q4: What is Obongjayar’s typical stage presence like? Obongjayar commands the stage with a natural charisma and an intensity that is both powerful and relatable. He’s not just a singer; he’s a storyteller, and his performance style is characterised by his emotive vocal delivery, compelling stage movement, and an undeniable aura that draws you in.

Q5: Are there any specific songs that are always a highlight of Obongjayar’s live shows? While the setlist can vary, songs that consistently ignite the crowd and showcase Obongjayar’s artistry often include fan favourites like the infectious “I Wish It Was Me,” the introspective yet anthemic “Everything,” and any tracks where his distinctive vocal talent truly shines. His collaborations are also often met with immense enthusiasm.

Q6: How long does a typical Obongjayar set last? You can generally expect Obongjayar’s live sets to last between 90 minutes and 2 hours. This allows ample time for him to explore a range of his material, from his earlier EPs to his latest album, providing a comprehensive and deeply satisfying musical experience for all attendees.