7Fest: A Cultural Fusion of Music, Fashion, and Community in the Netherlands

7Fest, a music festival founded by Ghanaian-Dutch afrobeats artist Frenna and Moroccan-Dutch creative Zakaria Ekhanza, has grown into a major cultural event in the Netherlands. Drawing over 25,000 attendees annually, the festival has become a key platform for emerging talents from Africa, the Caribbean, and the techno scene. It even played a pivotal role in introducing global superstar Burna Boy to Dutch audiences just before his breakout in 2019.

Since its inception, 7Fest has stood out as a melting pot of cultural diversity, attracting thousands of visitors from various backgrounds who come together to celebrate music and fashion. The festival’s collaboration with Amsterdam-based streetwear brand Daily Paper has been particularly impactful. For the past three years, Daily Paper has hosted the festival’s vibrant Afropiano stage, showcasing a mix of afrobeats, amapiano, afro house, and afro tech artists like Uncle Waffles, Musa Keys, and Tyla.

Daily Paper’s involvement began post-pandemic, as the brand sought to highlight the music genres that resonate with its cultural identity. Co-founder Jefferson Osei emphasizes that music, sport, and fashion have always been integral to Daily Paper’s ethos. The partnership with 7Fest allows them to connect with their community in meaningful ways, curating events that reflect their tastes and relationships with artists.

Frenna, whose music has broken records in the Netherlands, sees 7Fest as more than just a festival—it’s a cultural movement. The exponential growth of the event, from 7,000 attendees in its first year to over 25,000 recently, reflects its increasing significance. Despite this success, Frenna believes the world has yet to fully recognize the rich diversity of creative talent in the Netherlands, including his own contributions.

The inclusion of Daily Paper at 7Fest embodies the festival’s mission: to unite like-minded creatives and offer attendees a memorable experience filled with new musical discoveries. With plans for even bigger stages and a more expansive lineup next year, 7Fest is set to continue its role in shaping the festival landscape in the Netherlands. This unique collaboration between Frenna and Daily Paper is not just about entertainment—it’s about fostering a vibrant, culturally rich community that bridges continents and opens new pathways for artists across Europe.