In a recent interview on The Breakfast Club, Afrobeats star Rema opened up about the challenges he faces in gaining the recognition he feels he deserves. Following the global success of his single “Calm Down,” Rema has consistently asserted his place among Afrobeats’ elite, positioning himself alongside established giants like Davido, Wizkid, and Burna Boy.
Rema, who has made waves with his EP Ravage and his sophomore album HEIS, addressed the hesitations some individuals have in acknowledging his status as one of the “Afrobeats Big 3.” He suggested that the speed of his rise in the industry might be a factor in the reluctance to fully recognize his accomplishments.
“I think the success came too quickly that some people wish I didn’t get it too quick,” Rema said. “You know when they want to give you respect and you have to be 10 years in the game, I think my career didn’t play according to those rules. I was already breaking 7-year-old records when I was just 3 years in the game.”
The singer’s rapid ascent has not been without its critics, who question whether his relatively short tenure in the industry qualifies him for a spot among the top three Afrobeats artists. Despite this, Rema remains confident in his position.
“With respect to the OGs, but I am one of them…” Rema asserted when asked if he believes he deserves to be mentioned alongside Davido, Burna Boy, and Wizkid.
In his interview, Rema also spoke about his latest album HEIS, which he described as a bold challenge to industry norms and expectations. His remarks underscore his ongoing ambition to redefine the boundaries of Afrobeats and assert his place in its history.
As Rema continues to push the envelope with his music, his comments reflect the broader dynamics of recognition and respect within the music industry. Whether his rapid rise will ultimately secure him a lasting place among Afrobeats’ elite remains to be seen, but his confidence and determination are clear.