Nigerian sensation Divine Ikubor, fondly called Rema, boldly asserted that every Afrobeats artist who has emerged since 2019 has been building on the blueprint he pioneered.
While speaking during a recent appearance on The Breakfast Club, the singer credited himself with sparking a trend where rising stars introduce their debut through extended plays, setting the standard for the new wave of Afrobeats talent.
“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 said.
Rema mentioned that many people are reluctant to acknowledge his contributions to Afrobeats, so he feels the need to praise his own efforts.
“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 shared.