Nigerian superstar Rema (Divine Ikubor), during a high-energy, sold-out performance at London’s iconic O2 Arena on June 8, 2025, paused mid-set to pay heartfelt tribute to Afrobeats trailblazer D’banj, acknowledging the veteran’s instrumental role in establishing the genre’s presence in the UK.
Stepping forward, Rema invited D’banj on stage and said: “You were one of the first ones to bring Afrobeats to the UK.
You and Don Jazzy held it down. Y’all opened that door.
I appreciate you for life. I love you from the bottom of my heart.
If you never existed, I would have never existed.”
These words resonated powerfully with the audience, drawing thunderous applause. Rema emphasized that without the groundwork laid by D’banj and his legendary producer Don Jazzy, newer artists wouldn’t be enjoying the spotlight today.
The Breakthrough Moment
In 2012, D’banj dropped the global hit “Oliver Twist”, which holds the distinction of being the first Nigerian song to reach the UK Official Chart Top 10. This critical milestone shattered barriers and paved the way for other Afrobeats artists to break into international markets.
Why This Tribute Matters
Cultural Legacy: D’banj’s success marked Afrobeats’ transition from a regional phenomenon to a global movement—one that has since become a staple at major festivals, on charts, and on streaming services worldwide.
New vs. Old Generations: As an emblem of young Afrobeats artists born after the 2010s, Rema recognizes the value of honoring “OG” figures whose influence is often understated.
Evolving Genre: Afrobeats now commands major stages—from London to Tokyo and Coachella—thanks to early catalysts like D’banj and Don Jazzy.
The O2 Arena night didn’t stop at tributes. The show featured surprise guests, high-energy visuals, and a retrospective setlist that took fans from Rema’s breakout hits to his newest chart-topping tracks.
In Summary
Rema’s emotional nod to D’banj on a global stage was more than a personal acknowledgment—it was a potent reminder of Afrobeats’ interconnected past, present, and future. With legends like D’banj laying the groundwork, artists like Rema are now able to carry the torch, ensuring the genre’s explosive growth worldwide.
