Lagos, Nigeria – Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Rema has cemented his place among the genre’s elite, but his journey from a young rapper in Benin City to a global superstar has been anything but ordinary.
Discovered through a viral freestyle over “Gucci Gang” by D’Prince, Don Jazzy, and Davido, Rema was signed by D’Prince to Jonzing World under Mavin Records—a decision that set him on the path to stardom. Now, with multiple hits and international collaborations, he continues to push the boundaries of Afrobeats.
In a recent Rolling Stone interview for its Future of Music cover, Rema opened up about his Grammy experience, working with Selena Gomez, and the vision behind his latest project, Heis.
On Missing Out on a Grammy Win
Despite high expectations, Rema took his Grammy nomination in stride.
“I was just taking every moment in,” he shared. “I had my fingers crossed, and when it didn’t happen… it happens.”
On the Success of “Calm Down”
The global hit featuring Selena Gomez took the world by storm, but Rema admitted he never anticipated its massive reach.
“When I was making ‘Calm Down,’ I never thought the rest of the world would vibe to that.”
Addressing Illuminati Rumors
As his fame skyrockets, so do conspiracy theories about his success.
“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.”
On Creating Heis and Preserving Afrobeats
Rema’s latest project is both a personal and cultural statement.
“My mind had so much weight that I needed to disperse… One part was about the foundation of Afrobeats—paying respect and keeping the home sound going. The other was about my personal state, letting go of suppressed emotions.”
On Calling Himself One of Afrobeats’ ‘Big Four’
Rema boldly embraces his place among the genre’s giants.
“I just see myself as one of the greats, and it’s a problem. It’s not cocky. What stops you from saying you’re the best? It’s even humble to say four.”
On Advocating for the Next Generation
For Rema, his success is bigger than just himself.
“I don’t think anyone has blown up across Nigeria from Benin City. It’s me making the most of the moment, so the next person from that city can stand his ground too.”
On Nigeria’s Music Infrastructure
Despite frustrations, Rema remains hopeful about the future.
“A lot of people are angry at Nigeria. But I keep hope. It makes me look like I talk too much or care too much, but I just want to do what I need to do.”
Providing for His Mother—One of His Proudest Moments
One of Rema’s biggest accomplishments is giving his mother financial security.
“I have multiple houses across different countries in Africa, so she travels anywhere she wants,” he revealed, with properties in Kenya, Ghana, and a Moroccan-style home in Lagos.
From freestyling in a car to dominating global charts, Rema’s story is one of resilience, vision, and an unrelenting drive to elevate Afrobeats on the world stage.