On the 20th of December, we see the release of Rema’s second visually stunning video for DND, skillfully directed by Meji Alabi and extracted from his latest RAVAGE’ EP. On DND, Rema boldly asserts his independence from external opinions and extravagant interpretations of his music. He declares the game on “Do Not Disturb” mode, signalling a shift from societal judgments. The gripping video portrays the Benin City trailblazer navigating a high-stakes, cinematic police chase, from infrared aerial perspectives of his escape to scenes of him silencing his critics. The fiery conclusion of DND serves as a powerful statement to close the year, marking the beginning of a new chapter as Rema bids farewell to the Rave & Roses era and ushers in a promising new phase for the upcoming year. Rema’s RAVAGE EP has proven to be a catalyst for change, reflecting his evolution as an artist. Throughout the year, Rema’s global presence has been extraordinary, with performances in nearly twenty-five European countries and various states in the US, culminating in a sold-out show at The O2, London last month.
Rema’s meteoric rise is exemplified by record-breaking achievements. In the past year alone, he became the first African artist to achieve a billion streams on a Spotify song, clinched the inaugural VMA in the best Afrobeats category, and secured his place as the longest-charting African artist in the Billboard Top 100. He earned a coveted spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for topping the MENA charts. His success continued with triumphs at the Trace Awards, where he claimed Song of the Year and Best Global African Artist titles. The infectious anthem ‘Calm Down’ has dominated the charts, reaching No.4 on the UK’s Official Charts, No.5 on the Billboard Hot 100, and earning Gold, Diamond, and Platinum certifications worldwide. Rema’s accolades extend beyond music, as he assumed the role of a global ambassador for Jumpman (Jordan) at 23, graced the cover of i_D magazine, received the honourable title of one of British GQ’s Men of the Year and a MOBO nomination for Best African Act.
As Rema concludes this triumphant year filled with stellar performances and groundbreaking music, he takes a well-deserved break to rest and recalibrate, ensuring he enters 2024 with renewed vigour and creativity, continuing to shape the musical landscape for those who follow.