Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Rema has etched his name into global history, becoming the only African artist to feature on the prestigious 2025 TIME 100 Innovators list—a recognition reserved for trailblazers reshaping industries and culture worldwide.
The accolade not only celebrates Rema’s meteoric rise but also underscores the mounting influence of Afrobeats as a dominant force in global music.
Rema’s journey has been nothing short of groundbreaking. His 2022 chart-topping hit “Calm Down” smashed international streaming records and gained further momentum with a Selena Gomez remix, which became a global anthem.
In July 2024, he raised the bar with his sophomore album HEIS, earning a Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Album, a testament to his versatility and staying power in a fiercely competitive industry.
Adding weight to his recognition, Rema’s TIME 100 profile was written by legendary Grammy-winning singer Angélique Kidjo. She likened his artistry to the lineage of African greats like Fela Kuti and Miriam Makeba, while hailing his sound as “rooted in Africa but universal in its reach.”
Kidjo praised “Calm Down” for proving that African music does not need to mimic Western pop to resonate globally—it can stand tall in its own right.
Why It Matters
Cultural Validation: Rema’s recognition cements African music’s place as a driving force in shaping global soundscapes.
Afrobeats Ascendancy: It highlights the genre’s transition from a regional wave to a worldwide cultural movement.
Inspiration for Young Creatives: His success signals to aspiring African artists that local talent can achieve global acclaim without compromising authenticity.
With this feat, Rema isn’t just celebrated for his music—he’s recognised as an innovator shaping the future of sound and culture. His rise represents more than personal success; it is a continental victory, affirming Africa’s place in the global conversation on creativity and innovation.
