We’re All Under Afrobeats – Rema Tells Colleagues Dissociating Selves From Genre
Nigerian sensation, Divine Ikubor, known by his stage name Rema, used the platform of the 2023 Headies Awards to emphasize the unity within the afrobeats genre. The artist made this declaration as he received the prestigious award for Best Male Artiste of the Year during the ceremony held in Atlanta, USA, on Sunday.
In a heartfelt acceptance speech, Rema conveyed his appreciation for the role played by various institutions that support the music industry. He underlined the significance of nurturing and preserving these entities, which include media houses and award organizers. According to Rema, this attention to institutions is crucial during the present era, as neglecting them could result in missed opportunities that may never resurface.
Rema, known for his hit track ‘Calm Down,’ used the moment to stress that regardless of the evolving genres within the Nigerian music scene, artists would still unite under the Afrobeats umbrella when it comes to award shows. He stated, “Be it Afrorave, afro this, afro that, last last, we go jam for Afrobeats award. So, this is our chance. We [Afrobeats artists] are not the first to do it. Reggae has done it before.”
His remarks came in light of previous dissenting voices within the Nigerian music industry, including Burna Boy, who, along with some colleagues, had distanced themselves from the Afrobeats label. They expressed concerns about being pigeonholed and asserted that Afrobeats lacked substance.
Rema’s stance at the 2023 Headies Awards appears to advocate for cohesion within the genre, emphasizing the importance of supporting and preserving the institutions that contribute to the industry’s growth and recognition.
