Rema recently accepted the award for Best Afrobeats Song at the 2023 VMA, and his speech has everyone talking. In an emotional moment, he said, “I am so happy shout out to the people who opened the doors for me. Big shout out to Fela who started Afrobeats in the first place. 2Baba, Don Jazzy, D’Banj, D Prince, Runtown, Timaya, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido.”
Rema made sure to acknowledge the legends who paved the way for him, showing deep respect for the African icons who helped bring Afrobeats to the world stage. But that wasn’t all he also gave a big shout out to the new generation of Afrobeats artists, adding, “We are here to take it to the rest of the world.”
This statement reflects the growth of Afrobeats and Rema’s own role in pushing the genre forward. What was once appreciated mostly in Africa is now becoming a global phenomenon, and Rema is at the forefront of this movement, representing African pride, resilience, and the power of music.
Fans are praising Rema for giving credit to both the past and future of Afrobeats. He’s showing how interconnected the African music community is artists building on the success of those who came before them.
Rema’s shout out to legends like Fela Kuti, 2Baba, Don Jazzy, and Wizkid reminds us of the legacy that has shaped modern Afrobeats. But he’s also championing the new wave, artists like himself and others, who are pushing the genre even further.