Trace Live caps off 2025 with Lil Kesh feature at Terra Kulture

Trace Live caps off 2025 with Lil Kesh feature at Terra Kulture

The final edition of Trace Live for 2025 transformed Terra Kulture into a vibrant hub of music, culture, and premium spirits, courtesy of Lord’s London Dry Gin. Held on November 21, the event spotlighted Nigerian hitmaker Lil Kesh, drawing a stylish crowd eager to celebrate Lagos nightlife. As the year’s closing act, it underscored the synergy between authentic Nigerian music and strategic brand experiences, positioning Lord’s Gin as a key player in the entertainment and beverage sectors.

Lil Kesh, born Keshinro Ololade, took center stage, delivering a performance that blended nostalgia with contemporary flair. The artist, who rose to fame in 2014 under Olamide’s YBNL Nation label, kicked off the show with timeless hits like “Shoki,” “Gbese,” “Efejoku,” “Is It Because I Love You,” and “Don’t Call Me.” These tracks turned the auditorium into a unified chorus of high-energy fans, evoking the early days of his career when “Shoki” became a viral dance sensation across Africa.

Kesh’s journey from a freestyle rapper in Bariga, Lagos, to a mainstream star has been marked by resilience and evolution. After parting ways with YBNL in 2016 to launch his own YAGI Records, he navigated industry challenges, releasing albums like “Y.A.G.I” and collaborating with global acts. His newer records showcased a refined sound—mature lyrics paired with infectious beats—that aligned seamlessly with Lord’s Gin’s smooth, approachable brand identity.

The event wasn’t just a concert; it was a masterclass in experiential marketing. Lord’s Gin, produced by Nigeria Distilleries Limited (NDL), reimagined Terra Kulture as an immersive playground. Elegant lighting and subtle brand storytelling complemented curated cocktails, with mixologists crafting drinks that mirrored the performance’s vibe—smooth and bold, much like Lagos itself. The cocktail bar emerged as a secondary attraction, where attendees sipped blends tailored to each song, fostering a sense of community and indulgence.

Gbemileke Lawal, Marketing Manager at NDL, emphasized the cultural fit. “Lil Kesh represents a special part of the culture, and this edition allowed us to celebrate that voice in a premium way,” Lawal said. “Lord’s Gin will always champion the music and stories that move our audience. The synergy last night was undeniable.”

Valentine Dibia, Digital Marketing Lead at NDL, echoed the sentiment, noting the event’s role in brand positioning. “Trace Live gives us the perfect platform to express what Lord’s London Dry Gin is and stands for—not just a drink but a lifestyle with rhythm,” Dibia stated. “This Lil Kesh edition felt personal, real, and very Lagos. That’s exactly the space we want to keep owning.”

The climax came when Lil Kesh surprised fans by inviting Reekado Banks, Young Jonn, and Ayo Maff onstage, igniting the crowd and underscoring his enduring connections in the industry. This collaborative moment sealed the event as more than a performance—it was a testament to staying rooted in the streets while elevating experiences. As Nigeria’s music scene continues to influence global trends, partnerships like this with Lord’s Gin demonstrate how business savvy meets cultural authenticity, setting the stage for even bigger activations in 2026.

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