In 2023, Rema’s chart-topping single ‘Calm Down’ catapulted him to international stardom, dominating charts and setting records across the globe.
Adding another remarkable achievement to his roster, Rema became the inaugural African artist to grace the stage at the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony. Organized annually by the France Football Federation, this event celebrates the world’s finest football players.
In the vibrant city of Paris, Rema captivated an illustrious audience, which included football icons from around the globe, with a live rendition of his smash hit ‘Calm Down’.
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Taking to his social media platforms, Rema expressed his profound gratitude, emphasizing the immense honor of representing Afrobeats on the global platform and acknowledging the grace of God.
This historic performance aligns Rema with fellow Nigerian music luminaries Davido and Burna Boy, who have also left their mark on some of football’s grandest stages. Davido made history by performing at the 2022 FIFA World Cup final in Qatar, becoming the first Nigerian artist to do so. Meanwhile, Burna Boy etched his name in the annals of history as the inaugural African artist to perform at the 2023 Champions League final in Istanbul.
Rema’s unprecedented journey from local sensation to global phenomenon continues to inspire a new generation of artists and solidifies his status as a trailblazer in the music industry. His groundbreaking performance at the Ballon d’Or ceremony marks a momentous occasion not only for him but for the entire African music community, as it further cements Afrobeats’ influence on the world stage.
