Renowned singer Divine Ikubor, commonly known as Rema, has raised concerns that many of his peers are adopting elements of his branding and musical style. While he refrained from naming specific individuals, the artist, who recently received six nominations at the 2023 Billboard Music Awards, accused certain fellow singers of appropriating his distinct styles without due recognition.
In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, Rema, the artist behind “Calm Down,” acknowledged that, despite not receiving acknowledgment from those who emulate his style, he views it as “flattering” that others are drawing inspiration from his work.
Rema further expressed his lifelong aspiration to bring innovation to the Afrobeats music landscape.
He said: “I’ve been on the road for 4 years back-to-back; dropping bangers, hopping on stages. It has helped my growth non-stop.
“In as much as vacation is needed, I just don’t like to feel idle. I have so much plans for evolving this [afrobeats] sound. I’ve always been that guy who just want to change the guy and change how the game is perceived. From sound to shows, to branding.
“Even though some artists will not give me credit, I know how many people [artists] have copied my moves and I am flattered by it.”