PA Salieu

PA Salieu Live at KOKO, London

Prepare for an electrifying night as one of the UK’s most dynamic and exciting artists, PA Salieu, takes over the iconic KOKO in London on Thursday, 6 November 2025. This isn’t just another gig; it’s a chance to witness a true innovator in his element, delivering a raw and powerful performance that has captivated audiences worldwide. KOKO, with its rich history and intimate atmosphere, provides the perfect backdrop for Salieu’s infectious energy and profound lyrical artistry. Expect a night of unforgettable music, where the vibrant sounds of his acclaimed discography will reverberate through one of London’s most revered live music spaces.

About PA Salieu

Born in Birmingham to Gambian parents, PA Salieu has emerged as a singular voice in British music, charting a course that defies easy categorisation. His journey began with a relentless drive to express his experiences and observations, blending influences from grime, afrobeat, hip-hop, and dancehall into a sound that is uniquely his own. Salieu first gained significant traction with his groundbreaking debut mixtape, Send Them To War, released in 2020. This project, born from a period of personal reflection and resilience, showcased his exceptional lyrical prowess, his fearless approach to subject matter, and his ability to craft deeply personal narratives that resonate universally.

The mixtape was met with critical acclaim, earning him a Mercury Prize nomination and cementing his status as a formidable new talent. Tracks like “Frontline” and “Betty” became anthems, lauded for their unflinching honesty and innovative production. He followed this success with his debut album, PA’s life, in 2021, which further explored themes of identity, community, and his evolving perspective on life. The album solidified his position, featuring standout tracks such as “My Family” and “Glidin’,” which showcased his versatility and continued artistic growth. Salieu’s performances are renowned for their raw intensity and charismatic stage presence. He commands attention with every move, delivering his rhymes with a conviction that draws the audience into his world. His music is not just about catchy hooks; it’s a testament to his journey, a celebration of his heritage, and a powerful statement of intent. He continues to push boundaries, collaborate with diverse artists, and deliver music that is both thought-provoking and exhilarating.

Venue Information

KOKO, located in the heart of Camden, is a legendary London venue with a storied past, having hosted some of the world’s most iconic musicians for over a century. Originally a theatre, its opulent interiors and distinctive architecture create an unparalleled atmosphere for live music. The main theatre space boasts a capacity that allows for an intimate yet energetic experience, with excellent acoustics and sightlines from all angles. KOKO offers a truly immersive environment, perfect for experiencing the vibrant energy of an artist like PA Salieu. For complete venue details, including accessibility information and specific seating arrangements, please see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a performance that is as dynamic and unpredictable as PA Salieu himself. This show at KOKO is guaranteed to be a high-octane affair, a true celebration of his diverse and compelling discography. While the exact setlist remains a closely guarded secret, fans can anticipate a journey through his most impactful tracks. Expect to be moved by the raw emotion and powerful storytelling of anthems like “Frontline” and “Betty,” which brought him critical acclaim and widespread recognition.

The infectious energy of tracks like “Glidin’” and “My Family” will undoubtedly have the KOKO crowd on their feet, dancing and singing along. Salieu is known for seamlessly weaving in elements of grime’s urgent delivery with the soulful melodies of afrobeat and the rhythmic pulse of dancehall, creating a soundscape that is both familiar and utterly fresh. His performance style is electrifying. He possesses an innate stage presence, a magnetic charisma that connects with every member of the audience. His delivery is passionate, his movements are energetic, and his voice carries a weight of authenticity that is rarely found. You can expect him to engage directly with the crowd, creating a palpable sense of shared experience.

Beyond his established hits, PA Salieu often surprises audiences with deeper cuts from his mixtapes and albums, offering a comprehensive insight into his artistic evolution. There might even be glimpses of new material, hinting at what’s to come from this ever-innovating artist. The show is anticipated to run for approximately 90-120 minutes, allowing ample time for Salieu to showcase his versatility, interact with his fans, and deliver a truly memorable experience that captures the essence of his groundbreaking music. Be ready for a night where pulsating beats, poignant lyrics, and an unforgettable atmosphere collide.

FAQs

Q1: What is PA Salieu’s musical style? PA Salieu’s music is a compelling fusion of genres. He masterfully blends elements of grime, afrobeat, hip-hop, and dancehall, creating a sound that is distinctively his own. His lyrics often explore themes of identity, heritage, community, and personal experiences, delivered with a raw and authentic vocal style.

Q2: Has PA Salieu released a new album recently? While PA Salieu’s last major release was his debut album PA’s life in 2021, he is known for his consistent output of singles and features. Fans can always anticipate him dropping new material, and sometimes artists debut or tease unreleased tracks during live performances.

Q3: What are PA Salieu’s most popular songs? Among his most celebrated and popular tracks are “Frontline,” “Betty,” “My Family,” and “Glidin’.” These songs have resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, showcasing his lyrical depth and sonic innovation.

Q4: Is PA Salieu known for energetic live performances? Absolutely. PA Salieu is renowned for his incredibly energetic and charismatic live shows. He has a powerful stage presence that captivates audiences, delivering his verses with passion and engaging the crowd throughout his set.

Q5: Can I expect any special guests at the show? While it’s always possible for surprise guest appearances, there have been no official announcements regarding special guests for PA Salieu’s KOKO performance. However, even without guests, PA Salieu himself guarantees a standout performance.

Q6: What is PA Salieu’s background and inspiration? PA Salieu was born in Birmingham to Gambian parents. His upbringing and heritage significantly influence his music, providing rich cultural context and diverse sonic influences. His life experiences, observations on society, and strong sense of community are central to his lyrical narratives and artistic expression.