What Rema Thinks Will Happen If He Quits Music

[Rema Music/PinkVilla]
Written by Pharis Kinyua

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With a career that has already seen him reach unprecedented heights, Rema confidently asserts that his influence on Afrobeats is so profound that his name would undoubtedly be etched into the annals of the genre's history, even if he were to stop making music today.

Recently, Rema had the world buzzing after his electrifying performance at the prestigious 2023 Ballon D'Or award ceremony. The International Afrobeat star's meteoric rise to fame is a testament to his undeniable talent and unwavering dedication to his craft. Following this remarkable achievement, Rema sat down for an interview with the renowned British magazine I-D, where he shared his thoughts on the enduring legacy he is already forging within the Afrobeats genre.

With characteristic confidence, Rema declared, ""I’m not saying I want to stop. But if I say I want to stop right now, my name is still going to be on the Afrobeats bible, if there is an Afrobeats bible to be dropped. I’ll literally be in the New Testament, on the front page."" His words reflect not only the self-assuredness of a young artist who has achieved great success but also the profound impact he believes he has had and will continue to have on the genre.

Afrobeats, once a regional sound, has transformed into a global phenomenon, with African musicians breaking boundaries and achieving unprecedented success. Rema himself is a testament to this evolution. His performance at the Ballon D'Or ceremony was a milestone that underscored the genre's growing influence on the world stage. He joined a league of artists who are redefining the music landscape, showcasing the genre's versatility and its ability to resonate with diverse audiences worldwide.

As Rema alluded, Afrobeats is no longer confined to its place of origin. African musicians, including Rema, Burna Boy, and Tems, have transcended geographical borders, making an indelible mark on the global music scene. Burna Boy's historic feat of being the first African artist to sell out the Madison Square Garden is a testament to the genre's worldwide appeal, while Tems' co-writing of 'Lift Me Up' for Rihanna is evidence of Afrobeats' growing influence.

For Rema, the journey is far from over. He has a clear vision for himself and the genre he represents. He envisions expanding the horizons of Afrobeats, opening new territories, and creating bridges across musical landscapes. He sees himself as a bridge to uncharted territories, breaking down barriers, and forging connections that will continue to propel the genre forward.

""The clearest vision I have right now is that I will open so many new territories to Afrobeats. That’s the vision for me: opening doors, creating bridges. I’m the bridge to a lot of undone things,"" Rema passionately expressed during the interview. His commitment to pushing the boundaries of Afrobeats is unwavering, and his determination to explore uncharted territories is evident.

With every beat, lyric, and performance, Rema is not just making music; he is reshaping the future of a genre. His legacy is already secured in the hearts of fans worldwide, and his place in the annals of Afrobeats history is undeniable. 

As he continues to break down barriers, create bridges, and explore new territories, Rema is not just an artist of the moment; he is a visionary and a trailblazer, forging a path for Afrobeats to thrive on the global stage for generations to come. His name is etched in the very essence of Afrobeats, and it's a name that is destined to shine for years to come, whether he continues to make music or not.