Nigerian artist Divine Ikubor, widely recognized as Rema, has asserted that all emerging Afrobeats musicians since 2019 have been influenced by the framework he established.
He expressed this viewpoint during a recent appearance on The Breakfast Club.
The artist known for the hit ‘Ozeba’ further contended that he pioneered the practice of new musicians launching their careers with an extended play.
“When I came into the game [music industry], I brought a template. The way new artists come and dominate, mine was different. I started the EP trend. Every [new Afrobeats] artist since 2019 walked on that path like when you come out, you popped out with an EP,” he stated.
Rema noted that many individuals may not acknowledge his contributions to the evolution of Afrobeats, prompting him to advocate for his own achievements.
“A lot of people would argue [my innovation in Afrobeats]. I don’t like to feel an Afrobeats Messiah.
“Sometimes, people don’t like young people applauding themselves. Sometimes, it’s not for you to say. Sometimes, it’s the truth but it’s just not for you to say.
“Sometimes I can’t wait for the OGs to say it but since no one is saying it, I might have to say it myself,” he explained.