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n a recent interview, Nigerian artist Rema made waves by expressing his dissatisfaction with the current state of Afrobeats music. The young sensation, known for his genre-blending sound, revealed that he felt compelled to “switch it up” and pay homage to the genre’s origins.
Rema didn’t mince words when discussing the monotony he perceived in Afrobeats. “Afrobeats was becoming boring,” he stated emphatically. “I was already getting tired of hearing the same thing every day. It was becoming really monotonous.”
The rising star pointed out a crucial tension within the music industry. While artists strive for international recognition and chart-topping hits, they risk losing touch with their cultural roots. Rema believes that some artists have gone too far, prioritizing global acclaim over the essence of Afrobeats.
Rema also criticized established artists (referred to as “OGs”) who seem to distance themselves from Afrobeats. “Some of our OGs are already feeling like they’re bigger than Afrobeats itself,” he lamented. These veterans, once torchbearers of the genre, now prioritize other accolades over their musical heritage.
The mention of Fela Kuti, the legendary Nigerian musician and Afrobeat pioneer, was significant. Rema sees himself as a torchbearer, much like Kuti was in his time. “I had it as a responsibility to save Afrobeats,” Rema explained. His latest album, “HEIS,” reflects this commitment—a departure from the mainstream sound and a return to the genre’s authentic roots.
Rema’s call to action is clear: “We all need to go back to our roots like I did.” By infusing “HEIS” with the true essence of Afrobeats, he hopes to inspire other artists to reconnect with their musical heritage.
While Rema doesn’t name specific artists, his message resonates across the industry. Afrobeats, once a vibrant and soulful genre, faces challenges as it evolves. Rema’s bold move to revive its roots invites reflection: Who else will follow suit? And can Afrobeats reclaim its authenticity?
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