Grand Rapids had a rare treat this December 29, 2024, as the Metro Nightclub hosted a dazzling event headlined by Rwandan musician Platini P.
Dubbed the "Afrobeat Unlimited New Year Party,” the show marked a festive finale to bid the farewell to 2024 and usher into 2025 with style.
The show was organised by Afrobeat Unlimited’s DJs Lyon and Manzi, two US-based events organisers renowned for bringing Rwandan talent to the Midwest.
A modest crowd, but sky-high vibes
Despite the fanfare surrounding its promotion, the turnout was... intimate. About 100 people made their way to the venue, giving the night an exclusive, almost VIP feel. Small but mighty, the crowd proved that size doesn’t matter when the vibes are right. And Platini, who rose to fame with Dream Boyz, made sure the vibes were right.
Dressed to impress and armed with a playlist full of hits, Platini P serenaded fans with classics like Magorwa, Si Inzika, and Urare Aharyana—which took many down memory lane to his Dream Boyz days.
He also unveiled newer tracks like JeJe and Baba, in an energetic performance of a man who knows how to keep his audience grooving.
In between the performance, Platini P took the opportunity to connect with the crowd, flashing his signature smile and saying, "Let’s just have fun tonight and dance until the morning!” If there’s a better way to end a year, we’d like to know it.”
A late start worth the wait
The show, was initially scheduled to start at 4 PM but it took a little creative liberty with the clock and kicked off closer to 9 PM.
Was the delay frustrating? Perhaps. Did it matter once Platini hit the stage? Absolutely not. For a solid hour, he brought his A-game, pouring his heart and soul into every note.
After wrapping up his performance, he thanked the crowd for their support, promising more tunes and good times at the after party. Platini’s energy didn’t just light up the stage; it carried well into the night.
As the music faded and the crowd dispersed, the buzz remained electric. One attendee, Chantal Magnifique excitedly gushed, "The concert was so much fun! Platini P knows how to perform—he sings, he dances, he jokes, and he connects with the audience. Platini, we love you!”
Her sentiments echoed through the room, proving that, while the audience size was modest, Platini’s impact was anything but entertaining.
Platini’s Midwest comeback
This wasn’t Platini’s first rodeo in Michigan. He last performed in the state in 2020 and has been making waves across the U.S. ever since, with a notable show in Phoenix, Arizona, before this Grand Rapids gig.
While the event initially planned to feature Christopher Muneza as well, Platini’s solo act more than delivered.