Seunfunmi Joshua
Rema’s sold-out performance at Madison Square Garden on May 2, 2025, marked a significant milestone in his career, underscoring his status as a global Afrobeats sensation. From his early days in Benin City to gracing one of the world’s most iconic stages, Rema has consistently delivered moments that affirm his “He is HIM” status.
Here are eight (8) defining moments that showcase his meteoric rise:
From Benin City to Global Recognition
Rema’s journey began in Benin City, Nigeria, where he started making music at the age of 11. His unique blend of Afrobeats, trap, and pop caught the attention of D’Prince, leading to a record deal with Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records, in 2019. His breakout single “Dumebi” quickly became a hit, propelling him into the Nigerian music spotlight.
Innovative “Afrorave” Sound
Rema coined the term “Afrorave” to describe his unique musical style, blending Afrobeats with Arabian and Indian influences. This innovative approach has set him apart in the music industry and resonated with a diverse global audience.
“Calm Down” Breaks Global Records
In 2022, Rema released Calm Down — a track that quickly evolved into a global anthem. The remix featuring Selena Gomez soared to number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and dominated the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart for a record-breaking 58 weeks.
The song set multiple records, including becoming the most streamed Afrobeats track on Spotify, crossing the 1 billion stream mark. It also made history as the first African song to surpass one billion streams in the United States, according to Chart Data.
The song’s success solidified Rema’s position on the international stage.
Sold-Out O2 Arena Show
In November 2023, Rema became one of the few Afrobeats artists to sell out the 20,000-capacity O2 Arena in London. The performance featured elaborate stage designs and cultural references to his Benin heritage, highlighting his commitment to showcasing African culture on global platforms.
Performance at the Ballon D’Or Ceremony
In October 2023, Rema performed at the prestigious Ballon D’Or ceremony in Paris, further cementing his status as an international artist and bringing Afrobeats to a broader audience.
Cultural Ambassador at Louis Vuitton Show
Rema’s influence extends beyond music; in 2024, he attended the Louis Vuitton men’s collection show in Paris, designed by Pharrell Williams. His presence at such high-profile fashion events underscores his role as a cultural ambassador for Nigeria.
Grammy Nomination for “HEIS”
Rema’s sophomore album, “HEIS,” released in July 2024, showcased his growth as an artist. The album received critical acclaim and earned him his first Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Album at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards.
Sold-Out Show & Heartfelt Tribute to Don Jazzy at MSG
Last night, Rema achieved a monumental milestone by selling out Madison Square Garden, a feat that underscores his ascent in the global music scene.
The evening was further electrified by Rema’s dynamic performance of several of his hit singles, which showcased his exceptional stage presence and ability to captivate a massive audience. This moment not only celebrated his musical prowess but also highlighted the strong bonds and support systems within the Nigerian music industry that have propelled artists like Rema to global acclaim.
During this landmark performance, he paid a heartfelt tribute to his Label Boss and legendary producer, Don Jazzy, acknowledging the pivotal role he played in his journey from Benin City to global stardom, and his broader impact on the industry at large.
In his words, “I want to give you your flowers in front of this many people. You have worked so hard not just for your Artiste but for the game. There’s so many things you have done for the game that you don’t talk about, that people don’t talk about. You have changed so many lives and I just want to say, I’m grateful from the bottom of my heart. I love you so much.”
This tribute served as both a powerful personal moment and a testament to the collaborative spirit that fuels the continued rise of Nigerian music on the world stage.
Social Media Reactions: Big 4 Energy Unlocked
Social media was ablaze following Rema’s Madison Square Garden takeover, with fans celebrating not just the performance but the bold statement it made. One fan captured the moment perfectly:
“I’m so elated after seeing Rema’s MSG performance. The symbolism of the Big 3 was the coolest thing ever. They sat still as he towered over them as per ‘watch and learn.’ Big 4 doings!!!”
The now-viral display featured statues symbolizing Afrobeats’ Big 3 — Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy — as Rema rose above them. Not in rivalry, but as a confident declaration that a new giant has entered the room.
It was a moment of confidence, creativity, and cultural commentary, and social media could not get enough of it.
Check out more fan reactions lighting up the timeline.
Final Thoughts: Reflecting on His Journey
From small, sweat-soaked club stages with just a few hundred people to lighting up Madison Square Garden, Rema’s moment of reflection during his sold-out show wasn’t just about numbers. It was about how far he’s come. You could feel the weight of his journey in his voice, and fans around the world felt it too.
What started in the streets of Benin City has grown into a movement that is now shaping global soundtracks. Rema’s story isn’t just about fame. It’s about belief, bold choices, and staying true to your roots even as the world takes notice. Every milestone he hits is a reminder of what’s possible, not just for him, but for the next generation of African artists dreaming big.
