Amaarae to Headline Princeton’s Fall 2025 Lawnparties

Ghanaian-American singer-songwriter Amaarae is set to headline Princeton University’s Fall 2025 Lawnparties on Sunday, September 7, 2025. This announcement marks a significant shift in the festival’s musical direction, as Amaarae becomes the first Afro-Pop artist to take the main stage, moving away from the predominantly rap-focused headliners of recent years.

Amaarae, born Ama Serwah Genfi, has garnered international acclaim for her unique blend of pop, R&B, alté, and Afrobeats. Her rise to prominence includes a groundbreaking performance at Coachella 2025, where she became the first Ghanaian artist to deliver a solo set at the festival. During her Coachella performance, she proudly represented Ghana by incorporating songs from notable Ghanaian artists and encouraging the audience to wave their Ghanaian flags.

Amaarae’s latest album, Black Star, released in August 2025, has already amassed over 5 million streams, further solidifying her status as a global music icon. Her hit single “Sad Girlz Luv Money,” featuring Moliy, gained widespread popularity, especially after a 2021 remix featuring Kali Uchis.

The selection of Amaarae as the headliner reflects a broader effort to diversify the musical offerings at Princeton’s Lawnparties. Organizers believe her eclectic artistry and infectious music will resonate with the student body, offering a fresh and inclusive experience. Misa Mims ’27, a member of the Lawnparties planning team, described Amaarae as a “visionary” artist whose music is “infectious.”

Amaarae’s performance at Princeton’s Lawnparties is not just a musical event but also a cultural milestone, highlighting the growing influence of Afro-Pop and the importance of diverse representation in mainstream music festivals.