Before Rema became a global Afrobeats sensation, he was a young rapper in Benin City, recording freestyle videos in a car. His breakthrough came when a clip of him rapping over “Gucci Gang” (by D’Prince, Don Jazzy, and Davido) caught D’Prince’s attention. That moment led to his signing with Jonzing World, an imprint under Mavin Records, setting him on a path to international success.
Now, in a Rolling Stone Future of Music cover interview, Rema discusses his Grammy experience, working with Selena Gomez, his creative vision for Heis, and his position among Afrobeats’ Big Four.
On Missing Out on a Grammy Win
Despite not winning Best Global Music Album, Rema remained positive:
“I was just taking every moment in. I was celebrating people walking up that stage. I had my fingers crossed that I’d walk up the stage too, and when it didn’t happen… it happens.”
The hit song “Calm Down”, featuring Selena Gomez, became one of Afrobeats’ biggest crossover hits, but Rema never expected its massive impact:
“When I was making ‘Calm Down,’ I never thought the rest of the world would vibe to that.”
Addressing Illuminati Rumors
Like many artists who rise to superstardom, Rema has faced wild conspiracy theories:
“Random stories have been made up about me being Illuminati, worshiping the devil, drinking blood. I would definitely lose some fans who just believe in anything they see.”
Rema sees Heis as an emotional and cultural project, blending his personal struggles with a commitment to keeping Afrobeats authentic:
“One, culturally, about the foundation of Afrobeats—paying respect and trying to keep the home sound going. Two, my personal state—expressing so much dark energy I kept suppressing to put out love songs.”
Declaring Himself Part of Afrobeats’ ‘Big Four’
Rema is unapologetic about claiming his place among Afrobeats’ biggest stars:
“What stops you from saying you’re the best? It’s even humble to say four. I just see myself as one of the greats.”
Despite challenges, Rema remains hopeful for Nigeria’s music industry:
“A lot of people are angry at Nigeria. But I keep hope. I just want to do what I need to do.”
One of Rema’s proudest achievements is securing multiple homes across Africa for his mother:
“She travels anywhere she wants. My dad made much effort to just have land and properties, but all of that was taken from us.”
Rema’s journey continues to inspire, proving that his vision, resilience, and artistry make him one of Afrobeats’ greatest.
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