By Our Correspondent

National News – Dapper Live, the live events arm of Dapper Group, has announced plans to expand into international markets after earning recognition from Guinness World Records for staging the largest orchestra ever assembled at an Afrobeats concert.

The milestone was achieved during the “Trench Symphony: The Dapper Live Experience,” a landmark music event held in December 2025 in Lagos.

The achievement highlights the rising global influence of Afrobeats and signals a new phase for large-scale African music productions.

The record-breaking concert took place on December 16, 2025, at the Balmoral Eko Convention Centre inside the Federal Palace Hotel in Lagos.

More than 80 orchestra members performed alongside top Afrobeats artists in a unique fusion of classical orchestration and modern African music.

Organisers described the event as a creative breakthrough that demonstrates how Afrobeats concerts can evolve into large, globally competitive productions.

The production was conceived and executive produced by Damilola Akinwunmi, widely known as Dapper.

According to him, the Trench Symphony project was designed to showcase the global potential of African music and redefine how Afrobeats is experienced on major stages.

He explained that the goal was not only to break a record but also to create a cultural moment that celebrates African creativity and excellence.

Several performers featured at the concert, including T.I. Blaze, TML Vibez, Bhadboi OML, Rybeena, Lasmid, Cazulee, Kashcoming and DWillsHarmony.

The show also included special guest appearances by Fuji legends Saheed Osupa and K1 De Ultimate.

Music direction for the event was handled by Bazzman Sam, while orchestral conductors Fatola and Clintonic led the instrumental performance.

Creative direction came from Director K, while sound production was overseen by Temitayo “Tee Y Mix” Ibitoye with engineering by Mr Bassey to ensure seamless balance between vocals and orchestral instruments.

Following the Guinness recognition, Dapper Live confirmed plans for a nationwide Trench Symphony tour across 10 Nigerian states in 2026, before expanding to global venues in London, Birmingham, Dublin, Paris and selected Canadian cities.

Industry analysts say the move could further position Lagos as a leading global hub for Afrobeats innovation and large-format music performances.