If you have been anywhere near a speaker, a party, or the internet in the last few years, you already know Rema. The Benin-born superstar is only 25 years old and he is already building a body of significant work. A 2025 Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Album. A sweep at the 2026 AFRIMA Awards where he took home Artiste of the Year. A sophomore album, “HEIS,” that did not just perform well on the charts but genuinely shifted the direction of a genre.

With “HEIS,” Rema introduced the world to Afrorave, his own corner of sound that pulls from traditional rhythms and pushes them into experimental trap territory. That balance between honouring where he comes from and refusing to stay in one place is exactly what makes Rema one of the most interesting artists Africa has produced in a long time.

If your 2026 playlist is missing something and you cannot quite put your finger on what, it is probably him. Here are five Rema tracks that deserve a permanent spot:

Benin Boys (feat. Shallipopi)

A heavy-hitting celebration of his heritage. This collaboration with fellow Benin City native Shallipopi is a high-energy anthem that fuses hometown pride with a dark, cinematic production. It’s the sound of two stars acknowledging their roots while conquering the world.

HEHEHE

This track is Rema at his most confident and experimental. Featuring his signature “manic” laughter and a high-tempo, synth-heavy beat, it serves as a bold declaration of his status as the “number one” (Heis) in the game. It’s unconventional, catchy, and pure “Afrorave.”

Secondhand (feat. Don Toliver)

A smooth, 2026 collaboration that proves Rema’s versatility. This track leans into a more atmospheric, trap-infused sound, blending his signature melodic flow with Don Toliver’s psychedelic vocals. It’s perfect for late-night drives or chilled-out lounge sessions

OZEBA

If you want to experience the “madness” of Rema’s current era, this is it. “OZEBA” features frenzied production and experimental vocal layering that makes it one of the most unique songs in the Afrobeats space right now.

Charm

A modern classic that still holds its weight in 2026. This track highlights the chilled-out, summertime mood that Rema mastered early on. It’s soulful, flirtatious, and remains one of his most-streamed tracks for its infectious, laid-back groove.

The post 5 Rema Songs That Need to Be on Your 2026 Playlist Right Now appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Sunday night in Lagos belonged to Rema, as the 25-year-old artiste emerged as the night’s biggest winner at the 9th All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). Held yesterday evening at the Eko Hotels Convention Centre, the ceremony saw the Mavin Records superstar claim three of the evening’s most prestigious honours.

Rema’s haul began with the title of Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, a highly competitive category where he edged out fellow heavyweights including Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid. His dominance continued as he was named Artiste of the Year, the ceremony’s top prize, and took home Best African Artiste in RnB/Soul for his hit track “Baby, (Is It A Crime).”

During a poignant acceptance speech, Rema reflected on his journey since his 2019 debut. Now 25, he joked about “getting old” while celebrating seven years of consistency in the industry. “I’m 25 now, I’m getting old,” he joked with the audience, “but it is beautiful to be here again and still receiving awards seven years in the game.” However, his message soon turned to the future of the genre. Echoing his viral 2023 Headies speech, he urged his peers to continue supporting African-owned platforms and institutions to ensure the long-term global success of Afrobeats.

“Tonight, I am here most especially because as I said at the Headies Award, I always think it’s important to always support our utilities of Afrobeats. Our platforms. Especially platforms that would not divide or put down or split this unity that we have in the room,” he said.

The 9th AFRIMA, which celebrated African musical excellence across 40 categories, also saw significant wins for Burna Boy, who won Album of the Year for “No Sign of Weakness,” and Shallipopi, who walked away with Song of the Year for “Laho.”

 

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If you’ve found yourself staring at a photograph of Rema more than once, perhaps even more than thrice, we completely understand. We wouldn’t dare judge you for it, because we’ve been there too, and frankly, we’re still there, captivated by that remarkable face of his.

Perhaps it’s the bone structure that appears specially carved, paired with a gaze that could genuinely stop traffic. It might be those compelling eyes that carry an intensity which draws you in, whilst his perfectly symmetrical features photograph beautifully under any lighting conditions. Whatever the reason, there’s something almost otherworldly about the way his face makes you pause mid-scroll, and it’s not through any forced effort—he doesn’t appear to try hard to command your attention.

It’s there in his skin with that gorgeous melanin glow, evident in his jawline that’s impossibly sharp (forgive the hyperbole, but you understand what we mean), and present in that self-assured stare which suggests Rema knows precisely the effect he has.

If one were to describe his face card, we’d confidently say it’s pure platinum—the kind that never gets declined. We’ve gathered three stunning examples of his visual prowess to demonstrate exactly what we mean. Take a look below and see for yourself why Rema’s face remains one of his most captivating assets.

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Everything is moving at lightning speed. A man galloping furiously on horseback, a motorcyclist racing past in a blur, even the danfo bus careering down the highway at breakneck pace. In Rema‘s “Kelebu” music video, there’s simply no time to catch your breath.

Inside a bustling salon, both the hairdresser and her client are dancing frantically whilst getting hair done. Painters drop their brushes to join in, lifting their legs one after the other in perfect sync with the pounding beat. Even a bride, still clutching her bouquet and trailing her wedding gown, can’t resist moving her arms in rapid circular motions. Everyone, and we truly mean everyone, has caught the fast-paced fever that defines this visual feast.

If you’re hoping for a moment’s pause, you’re in the wrong place. This isn’t about slow, romantic swaying or gentle head-nodding. Keep up or get left behind, because if your moves don’t match the frantic pace, your dance partner will quickly find someone who can handle the heat.

“Kelebu,” Rema’s latest single, is pure high-octane Afrobeats designed to get people moving from the very first beat. The track revolves around the repetitive “Kelebu” chant that works like a hypnotic call to action, pulling listeners into its whirlwind of celebration.

The song weaves together Nigerian street language, pulsating Afro rhythms, and references to the good life. Lines celebrating movement and fun stretch from Nigeria to Mozambique, making it clear that this track was built for dancing, no matter where you are in the world.

The accompanying video perfectly mirrors this relentless pace. Rema himself is constantly in motion, surrounded by a cast of characters who simply can’t—and won’t—stand still. It’s controlled chaos at its finest, where every frame pulses with movement and nobody gets a moment to breathe.

Watch below and see if you can keep up with the beat.

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Afrobeats sensation Rema is turning up the excitement ahead of the release of his upcoming single KELEBU, set to drop this Friday, August 1, 2025, by launching a $10,000 dance challenge for fans across the globe.

In a move that blends music, fan engagement, and digital culture, the Calm Down hitmaker is calling on fans to create a simple, fun, and visually appealing dance routine for KELEBU. The winning entry will walk away with a grand prize of $10,000, a major incentive that has already sparked buzz on social media.

To join the KELEBU dance challenge, participants must post their dance videos immediately after the song is released using the hashtag #KELEBUChallenge and tagging Rema in their posts. According to the artist, the ideal routine should be easy enough for anyone to learn, yet catchy and creative enough to go viral.

Rema, known for his innovative approach to music and fan interaction, is once again showing love to his global audience by offering them a platform to shine. This challenge not only celebrates the release of KELEBU, but also highlights the power of community and creativity in the digital age.

With thousands expected to participate, timelines are likely to be flooded with energetic, bold, and original dance routines, all inspired by what could be another major hit in Rema’s discography.

As the countdown to Friday begins, fans are getting ready to hit the record button and possibly secure a life-changing cash prize in the process.

$10K for whoever come up with a EASY dance for KELEBU. out this Friday! pic.twitter.com/kkJKf0TAM3

— REMA (@heisrema) July 27, 2025

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Rema has once again sent fans into a frenzy, this time by dropping a surprise freestyle video over Shallipopi’s viral street anthem, Laho.

In the clip, the Calm Down crooner is seen vibing effortlessly to the hard-hitting beat of Laho, adding his own smooth verses and melodic flow to the mix. While it’s not an official remix, Rema’s unique spin on the track has ignited excitement online, with many fans hailing it as a standout moment and even calling for a full collaboration between the two stars.

Asides from this update by Rema, Shallipopi’s original Laho has been dominating the streets with its raw energy and Pluto-inspired swagger. Rema’s freestyle introduces a different vibe, polished, witty, and undeniably catchy, bridging the gap between street grit and mainstream finesse.

Both artists, proudly representing Edo State, continue to push the boundaries of Nigerian sound. Rema’s freestyle may be unofficial, but it’s already being dubbed one of the most exciting crossovers of the year, proof of the power in spontaneous musical moments.

Quick vibe #Laho pic.twitter.com/CrmlEVJpkm

— REMA (@heisrema) July 26, 2025

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À tout juste 24 ans, Rema confirme son statut de superstar en livrant un concert hors norme à l’Accor Arena de Paris ce samedi 28 juin 2025. Dès 18h30, plus de 20 000 fans enthousiastes se massent aux portes de la salle mythique de Bercy, l’ambiance déjà électrique avant même les premières notes. Dès les premiers …

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Nigerian music legend, D’banj, has stirred conversation online following a recent interview where he revealed his current top three Nigerian artists and surprisingly, Wizkid didn’t make the list.

Speaking during a candid session on Adesope Live, the Koko Master showered praise on Rema, Davido, and Burna Boy, commending their work ethic, charisma, and commanding stage performances. D’banj applauded Rema for his electrifying energy, described Davido as a relentless talent who stays grounded despite his success, and hailed Burna Boy for the intentionality behind his craft and remarkable live shows.

The comments of D'banj while widely celebrated by fans of his top three Nigerian artists, sparked reactions from music lovers who quickly pointed out the absence of Wizkid, one of Nigeria’s most internationally acclaimed artists. The omission has since ignited debates on social media about D’banj’s choices and the ongoing conversation around the industry's leading voices.

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Ayra Starr has won her first BET award after clinching the highly coveted Best International Act Award. The Afrobeats star beat out strong competition, which included Mavin Records labelmate Rema, last year's winner Tyla, Ghanaian maverick Black Sherif, and Uncle Waffles, among others.

The win was well celebrated by multiple sections of the homebound and international audience, as Ayra Starr has often been nominated for top international awards, including the BET and Grammys, but had previously come second to other artists. This feels like a deserved win, especially considering the quietly purposeful year Starr has been having. A few weeks ago, she performed at a New Balance event, and her two singles, the Valentine anthem "All The Love" and the Wizkid-featured "Gimme Dat," have been doing very well on the charts.

As expected, Ayra's BET nod has opened up a flurry of conversations. One of those is Jay-Z's Roc Nation congratulating Ayra Starr via their X account. This move has sparked speculation about whether the label has signed the Nigerian star or has some ongoing business in the background.

It is known that since the 2010s, Mavin CEO Don Jazzy has maintained a connection with his Roc Nation counterpart, with Jay-Z reportedly sending members of his team, including the rapper Jay Electronica, to scout for Nigerian talent. This visit also resulted in a song.

A more pressing commentary on Ayra's BET win is that her award was presented to her backstage despite her presence at the event, which was held at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles. People have noted how Wizkid once criticized international award shows for their reluctance to appreciate African acts on the same stages as their international colleagues, an act the Afrobeats veteran labeled as "rubbish."

Ayra Starr has also insisted on being properly recognized for her work, criticizing Nigeria's premier music awards, the Headies, in 2023 for awarding her Best Female Act after the event had concluded. "We didn't deserve such nonchalance!" she wrote in a post on X afterward. It remains to be seen how she will respond to BET's action, but such actions should have no place in the music industry, especially in a globalized scene that owes its success to the efforts of players from around the world.

Beyond Ayra's win, Africa had further reason to celebrate as the Amapiano women DJ duo TxC snagged the coveted Best New International Act, joining their respected South African forebears like Black Coffee and Sho Madjozi who have won the BET in previous years.

Cynthia Erivo, the British actor of Nigerian descent, was also awarded Best Actress, cementing her place as one of the faces of contemporary Black cinema. Erivo has had a phenomenal year, earning critical acclaim and multiple prestigious nominations for her powerhouse performance as Elphaba in the blockbuster musical "Wicked," including Academy Award, Golden Globe, BAFTA, SAG, and Critics' Choice nominations for Best Actress.

OkayAfrica was on the ground, capturing the energy and excitement of African talent on the red carpet. We spoke with several of the continent's brightest stars.

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British Sudanese sensation Elmiene gave us an exclusive moment before his beautiful performance on the BET stage.

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The duo TxC was excited to be there and wished that everyone could experience the energizing atmosphere. “It is crazy! Being here, seeing everybody, the atmosphere … everything that is happening right now. I feel like everybody should experience this,” one of them tells OkayAfrica.

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Ghana's Black Sherif shared with us the exact moment he learned about his nomination.

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Buju Banton, a towering figure in reggae, also took time to connect.

Nigerian Afrobeats sensation, Rema, delivered an unforgettable night of music and energy as he took over the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto yesterday.

The multi-talented star performed to a sold-out crowd, thrilling fans with a dynamic setlist that featured some of his biggest global hits, including Calm Down, Soundgasm, Holiday, and Charm.

From the moment he hit the Scotiabank Arena stage, Rema owned the night with his commanding presence, sharp choreography, and pitch-perfect vocals. The arena was alive with excitement as fans passionately sang along to every lyric, creating a euphoric atmosphere that reflected the singer’s growing international influence.

Backed by stunning visuals and a powerhouse live band, Rema’s performance was a spectacle of sound and sight, reaffirming his status as one of Afrobeats’ leading voices. The night was a clear testament to Rema’s unique ability to connect with audiences across the world and his ongoing mission to redefine the global soundscape of Afrobeats for a new generation.

Rema Just made history at the 19,800 Capacity Scotia Bank Arena, Canada pic.twitter.com/PCYG4jL5KR

— HYPETRIBE (@hypetribeng) May 12, 2025

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The 2025 BET Awards nominations are in, and African artists feature prominently across major categories, marking another strong moment for the continent’s music on the global stage.

Ayra Starr leads the African contingent with three nominations: ‘Best Female R&B/Pop Artist’, ‘Best New Artist’, and ‘Best International Act’. These nominations reflect her expanding presence in both African and international music circles.

Tems earns two nominations in the ‘BET Her’ category for “Burning” and “Hold On,” both from her debut album “Born In The Wild.”

Tems, already a global sensation, continues to break barriers, earning two nominations in the ‘BET Her’ category for her moving tracks, “Burning” and “Hold On”. These powerful songs from her debut album, “Born In The Wild,” not only showcase her signature emotional depth but also highlight her role as one of the most resonant voices in contemporary music.

Other African acts nominated this year include Rema, Burna Boy, Tyla, Black Sherif, and Uncle Waffles. The ‘Best New International Act’ category also sees strong African representation, with Shallipopi, Odeal, Maglera Doe Boy, Abigail Chams, and Dlala Thukzin recognised for their work over the past year.

This year’s nominations point to the expanding global footprint of African music and the continued recognition of its artists on major international stages.

See the full list of nominees:

Album of the Year

• $OME $EXY $ONGS 4 U – Drake & PARTYNEXTDOOR
• 11:11 Deluxe – Chris Brown
• Alligator Bites Never Heal – Doechii
• Cowboy Carter – Beyoncé
• Glorious – GloRilla
• GNX – Kendrick Lamar
• Hurry Up Tomorrow – The Weeknd
• We Don’t Trust You – Future & Metro Boomin

Best Female R&B/Pop Artist

• Ayra Starr
• Ari Lennox
• Coco Jones
• Kehlani
• Muni Long
• Summer Walker
• SZA
• Victoria Monét

Best Male R&B/Pop Artist

• Bruno Mars
• Chris Brown
• Drake
• Fridayy
• Leon Thomas
• Teddy Swims
• The Weeknd
• Usher

Best Group

• 41
• Common & Pete Rock
• Drake & PARTYNEXTDOOR
• FLO
• Future & Metro Boomin
• Jacquees & Dej Loaf
• Larry June, 2 Chainz, The Alchemist
• Maverick City Music

Best Collaboration

• 30 for 30 – SZA feat. Kendrick Lamar
• Alter Ego – Doechii feat. JT
• Are You Even Real – Teddy Swims feat. GIVĒON
• Beckham – Dee Billz feat. Kyle Richh, Kai Swervo, KJ Swervo
• Bless – Lil Wayne, Wheezy & Young Thug
• Like That – Future & Metro Boomin & Kendrick Lamar
• Luther – Kendrick Lamar & SZA
• Sticky – Tyler, the Creator feat. GloRilla, Sexyy Red & Lil Wayne
• Timeless – The Weeknd feat. Playboi Carti

Best Female Hip Hop Artist

• Cardi B
• Doechii
• Doja Cat
• GloRilla
• Latto
• Megan Thee Stallion
• Nicki Minaj
• Rapsody
• Sexyy Red

Best Male Hip Hop Artist

• Burna Boy
• BigXthaPlug
• Bossman Dlow
• Drake
• Future
• Kendrick Lamar
• Key Glock
• Lil Wayne
• Tyler, the Creator

Video of the Year

• 3AM in Tokeyo – Key Glock
• A Bar Song (Tipsy) – Shaboozey
• After Hours – Kehlani
• Denial is a River – Doechii
• Family Matters – Drake
• Not Like Us – Kendrick Lamar
• Timeless – The Weeknd feat. Playboi Carti
• Type Shit – Future, Metro Boomin, Travis Scott & Playboi Carti

Video Director of the Year

• Anderson .Paak
• B Pace Productions & Jacquees
• Benny Boom
• Cactus Jack
• Cole Bennett
• Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar
• Dave Meyers
• Foggieraw
• Tyler, the Creator

Best New Artist

• 41
• Ayra Starr
• BigXthaPlug
• Bossman Dlow
• Dee Billz
• Leon Thomas
• October London
• Shaboozey
• Teddy Swims

Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award

• A God (There Is) – Common & Pete Rock feat. Jennifer Hudson
• Amen – Pastor Mike Jr.
• Better Days – Fridayy
• Church Doors – Yolanda Adams feat. Sir The Baptist & Donald Lawrence (Terry Hunter Remix)
• Constant – Maverick City Music, Jordin Sparks, Chandler Moore & Anthony Gargiula
• Deserve to Win – Tamela Mann
• Faith – Rapsody
• Rain Down on Me – GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music

Viewer’s Choice Award

• Residuals – Chris Brown
• Denial is a River – Doechii
• Nokia – Drake
• Like That – Future & Metro Boomin feat. Kendrick Lamar
• TGIF – GloRilla
• Not Like Us – Kendrick Lamar
• Luther – Kendrick Lamar & SZA
• Brokey – Latto

Best International Act

• Any Gabrielly (Brazil)
• Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
• Bashy (United Kingdom)
• Black Sherif (Ghana)
• Ezra Collective (United Kingdom)
• Joé Dwèt Filé (France)
• MC Luanna (Brazil)
• Rema (Nigeria)
• SDM (France)
• Tyla (South Africa)
• Uncle Waffles (Swaziland)

Best New International Act

• Abigail Chams (Tanzania)
• Ajuliacosta (Brazil)
• Amabbi (Brazil)
• Dlala Thukzin (South Africa)
• Dr Yaro (France)
• KWN (United Kingdom)
• Maglera Doe Boy (South Africa)
• Merveille (France)
• Odeal (United Kingdom)
• Shallipopi (Nigeria)
• TxC (South Africa)

BET Her

• Beautiful People – Mary J. Blige
• Blackbiird – Beyoncé feat. Tanner Adell, Brittney Spencer, Tiera Kennedy & Reyna Roberts
• Bloom – Doechii
• Burning – Tems
• Defying Gravity – Cynthia Erivo feat. Ariana Grande
• Heart of a Woman – Summer Walker
• Hold On – Tems
• In My Bag – FLO & GloRilla

Best Movie

• Bad Boys: Ride or Die
• Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F
• Luther: Never Too Much
• Mufasa: The Lion King
• One of Them Days
• Rebel Ridge
• The Piano Lesson
• The Six Triple Eight

Best Actor

• Aaron Pierre
• Aldis Hodge
• Anthony Mackie
• Colman Domingo
• Denzel Washington
• Jamie Foxx
• Joey Bada$$
• Kevin Hart
• Sterling K. Brown
• Will Smith

Best Actress

• Andra Day
• Angela Bassett
• Coco Jones
• Cynthia Erivo
• Keke Palmer
• Kerry Washington
• Quinta Brunson
• Viola Davis
• Zendaya

YoungStars Award

• Akira Akbar
• Blue Ivy Carter
• Gracelyn “Gracie” Hollingsworth
• Heiress Harris
• Melody Hurd
• Thaddeus J. Mixson
• Tyrik Johnson
• VanVan

Sportswoman of the Year Award

• A’ja Wilson
• Angel Reese
• Claressa Shields
• Coco Gauff
• Dawn Staley
• Flau’jae Johnson
• Juju Watkins
• Sha’Carri Richardson
• Simone Biles

Sportsman of the Year Award

• Aaron Judge
• Anthony Edwards
• Deion Sanders
• Jalen Hurts
• Jayson Tatum
• LeBron James
• Saquon Barkley
• Stephen Curry

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