REMA’S DREAM OF JOINING DAVIDO, WIZKID AND BURNA BOY

Divine Ikubor, aka Rema, has been known to become a rising sensation in the world of Afro pop culture. His music spans a variety of subgenres all within the popular Afro music, including trap, rap, and hip hop. His widespread fame has also reached an international audience, where his collaboration with Selena Gomez in the hit song “Calm Down” took the world by storm. It even broke the world record of the song with the highest number of streams on Spotify Music.

In as much as the rising star has come so far in his journey to legend, could he be compared to other Afro moguls like Burna Boy, Davido, or Wizkid?

This Nigerian trio that has now been known as the “Big 3” due to their killer songs and global fame ideally represent the best of Afro, and Rema has never held back on the fact that he aspired to be on their level.

To spark further debate, in his new song “Hehehe,” he sings about the “Big 3” becoming a “Big 4,” implying he has joined their ranks.

This song was affixed within an original album of songs Rema had just released titled, “HEIS”. Among other notable bangers were “Azaman”, “Benin Boys” and “War Machine”. 

This begs the question: Is Rema already on the same level with these megastars, or is he still far from that level of fame?

A lot of Rema fans would claim he is already on par with the Big 3. Thanks to his latest hits like “Benin Boys” with Afrobeat rapper Shallipoppi, Rema has seemed to be the current most trending Nigerian artist for the past two months. He keeps dropping banger after banger that unfailingly take the spotlight and keep his fans welling with adoration and anticipation. However, opponents of this argument would claim that none of Rema’s top hits are as sensational as the top hits of the Big 3, like Davido’s “One Thing” that amassed over 1.5 billion streams and counting on Spotify, or “Own It” by Burna Boy and Stormzy, that got over 238 million streams on Spotify in the UK alone.

All in all, anyone can see the impact that Rema has had on the Afrobeat scene. His unique sound and innovative approach have not only garnered him a massive following but also pushed the boundaries of the genre. Rema’s music is a blend of traditional Afrobeat rhythms with modern trap and hip-hop influences, creating a fresh and exciting sound that resonates with the youth.

Rema’s journey is reminiscent of the early days of the Big 3. Like them, he started with a unique sound that quickly caught the attention of music lovers both locally and internationally. His debut EP “Rema” introduced the world to hits like “Dumebi” and “Iron Man,” which laid the foundation for his rapid rise. His ability to consistently release hits has drawn comparisons to the prolific nature of Davido, Wizkid, and Burna Boy.

However, Rema’s rise has not been without its controversies. Critics argue that while he is undoubtedly talented, he has yet to prove the staying power and versatility that the Big 3 have demonstrated over the years. They point to the depth and range of Wizkid’s discography, the international acclaim and Grammy wins of Burna Boy, and the cultural impact of Davido’s music as benchmarks that Rema has yet to reach.

The debate over Rema’s place among the Big 3 also touches on the broader dynamics of the Nigerian music industry. The Big 3 have not only dominated the charts but have also paved the way for the new generation of artists. They have built a legacy that extends beyond music, influencing fashion, culture, and even politics. For Rema to truly join their ranks, many believe he needs to similarly expand his influence and make a lasting impact beyond his music.

Yet, Rema’s potential is undeniable. His international collaborations, including the groundbreaking success of “Calm Down” with Selena Gomez, demonstrate his global appeal. He has also shown a keen understanding of the power of social media and digital platforms, using them to connect with fans and promote his music effectively.

For the Nigerian youth, Rema represents a new wave of artists who are fearless and innovative. His music speaks to their experiences and aspirations, making him a relatable and influential figure. The energy and enthusiasm he brings to his performances are infectious, and his style and persona resonate deeply with his generation.

While the debate over Rema’s place among the Big 3 continues, it is clear that he is on a remarkable trajectory. Whether he has already reached their level or is still on his way, Rema’s impact on Afrobeat and the Nigerian music scene is undeniable. As he continues to evolve and push the boundaries of his craft, only time will tell if he will indeed become the fourth member of the Big 4. For now, Rema is a shining star, inspiring a new generation of artists and fans, and redefining what it means to be a global Afrobeat sensation.

Rema himself has expressed his ambition to reach the heights of the Big 3. In interviews, he often speaks about his admiration for Davido, Wizkid, and Burna Boy, and his desire to follow in their footsteps. His confidence and determination are evident in his music and his public persona, suggesting that he is not just aiming for momentary success but a lasting legacy.