Fez — Moroccan international producer RedOne has unveiled “AWAM,” the official album of the Africa Cup of Nations, marking one of the most ambitious music projects linked to the tournament as Morocco prepares to host the continental competition.
Announced through Moroccan state-controlled media outlets, the album brings together 12 tracks that feature a mix of Moroccan and African artists, alongside global names with strong ties to the continent. The project is designed as a musical extension of AFCON, notes the announcement, stressing that it aims to reflect both the diversity of African sounds and the celebratory atmosphere surrounding the tournament.
“AWAM” includes contributions from artists such as French Montana, Inkonnu, Manal Benchlikha, Akon, Yemi Alade, and others, placing Moroccan performers alongside internationally recognized African voices. The lineup reflects RedOne’s long-standing approach of blending local identity with global pop and urban influences.
A live debut at the opening ceremony
The album’s rollout began on a high-profile stage, with its first single performed live during the AFCON opening ceremony. The performance featured French Montana, Davido, and Ayra Starr, setting the tone for what organizers presented as a culture-forward start to the tournament.
Moroccan state media reported that all 12 tracks from “AWAM” are expected to be released with official music videos, suggesting a staggered visual rollout that extends the album’s presence beyond the opening ceremony and into the full duration of AFCON.
Positioning music at the heart of AFCON
RedOne, whose career includes producing global hits and major event anthems, has played a central role in shaping the musical identity of AFCON 2025. “AWAM” positions music as a central element of the narrative powering Africa’s go-to football tournament in Morocco, reinforcing the country’s effort to frame the event as both a sporting and cultural showcase.
The album’s title, which translates loosely to “the masses” or “the people,” aligns with the project’s emphasis on collective celebration and broad appeal. By combining artists from different backgrounds and markets, the project seeks to speak to stadium crowds, television audiences, and online listeners at the same time.
A broader cultural signal
Beyond the music, “AWAM” reflects Morocco’s wider strategy in hosting AFCON, using culture, performance, and global collaborations to project an image of openness and creative leadership. As the tournament progresses, the album is likely to serve as a recurring soundtrack across fan zones, broadcasts, and digital platforms.
“AWAM” is thus less a standalone release than a cultural marker of AFCON 2025 itself, capturing how Morocco is using music to amplify the tournament’s reach and leave a lasting impression beyond the final match.
