Rema has staked his claim among the genre’s elite, delivering a spectacular debut performance at New York City’s iconic Madison Square Garden on Friday night, per billboard.com. The sold-out show, which coincided with the celebration of his 25th birthday, served as a powerful coronation for the young artiste, suggesting a shift from the widely recognised “Big Three” of Afrobeats to a formidable “Big Four.”
The generally accepted “Afrobeats Big Three” are Burna Boy, Davido and Wizkid.
These three artistes have been instrumental in popularising Afrobeats on a global scale, achieving international recognition, and garnering numerous awards and accolades. Their music has topped charts worldwide, and they have collaborated with various international artistes, significantly contributing to the genre’s global prominence.
Just three years after his global smash hit “Calm Down” featuring Selena Gomez catapulted him to international stardom, Rema proved his staying power and artistic evolution. The “Heis World Tour,” named after his Grammy-nominated sophomore album, showcased the impressive catalogue he has built since his 2019 breakout single “Dumebi.”
Stepping onto a levitating platform wielding a machete and draped in a massive fur coat, Rema launched into his set with the commanding “March Am.” Throughout the electrifying performance, he seamlessly transitioned between high-octane tracks like “Azaman” and “Yayo” and more mellow, R&B-infused hits such as “Favourite Girl” and the crowd-favourite “Calm Down,” demonstrating his versatility and stage presence.
The concert was punctuated by themed segments and interludes, maintaining the audience’s enthusiasm. A surprise birthday celebration, complete with a bat-adorned cake, added a personal touch to the momentous occasion. Adding to the night’s surprises, New York rappers Cash Cobain and Bay Swag made a guest appearance, bridging the gap between Afrobeats and the city’s vibrant drill scene.
A particularly poignant moment arrived when Rema paid a heartfelt tribute to Don Jazzy, the head of Mavin Records, acknowledging him as a crucial figure in his career and the broader globalisation of Afrobeats. The night reached its fever pitch with a double performance of “Ozeba,” the explosive track igniting the arena with pyrotechnics and fireworks, leaving the audience in awe.
However, the most declarative moment came during the performance of “Hehehe,” where Rema rose from beneath the stage to dance atop a table featuring mannequins representing Burna Boy, Wizkid and Davido. This bold statement, met with thunderous applause, solidified Rema’s assertion that he has earned his place among Afrobeats’ leading men, ushering in a new era for the genre. From playing to a mere 300 people in New York five years ago to commanding the stage at Madison Square Garden, Rema’s journey is a testament to his talent and the undeniable global rise of Afrobeats.
- Featured image: Rema performs the Afro Nation Detroit Festival at Bedrock’s Douglass Site on Aug. 17, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images
