Nigerian music star Rema has made history as the first African artist to earn a spot on the 2025 TIME100 Next lis
Afrobeats sensation Rema has made history as the only African artist featured on the prestigious 2025 TIME100 Next list, which spotlights the world’s most influential rising stars.
His profile on the list was penned by Grammy-winning legend Angélique Kidjo, who praised Rema’s groundbreaking achievements.
Kidjo noted that his success carries forward the legacy of African music legends such as Fela Kuti, Miriam Makeba, and Youssou N’Dour, who paved the way for bringing the continent’s vibrant sounds to the global stage.
Kidjo wrote: “With the recent global explosion of African music, I needed to include some contemporary sounds. I fell in love with Rema’s “Calm Down.” It has a unique flow and feel, not mimicking Western pop; it is rooted in Africa but also catchy and virtuosic. I love to sing it.
“The young Nigerian superstar has accomplished so much: “Calm Down” has joined the billion-stream club twice over. Rema has performed in stadiums. His latest album earned a Grammy nomination.
“Rema is the embodiment of the international success of Afrobeats. Thanks to artists like him, African music is at the forefront of global culture”.
This achievement cements Rema’s status as a leading figure in global music.
