Big artists downplay my role in shaping contemporary Afrobeats - Rema
Nigerian artist Divine Ikubor, widely known as Rema, has stirred conversations by claiming that Afrobeats musicians who have emerged since 2019 have largely followed the trajectory he set.
During a recent interview on The Breakfast Club, Rema discussed his influence on the genre and expressed his frustration over the lack of recognition from more established figures in the industry.
The young artist believes that his entry into the music scene reshaped how new artists approach their careers, particularly with the release of extended plays (EPs) as a strategy for breaking into the industry.
According to Rema, his approach when he debuted was distinct, as he popularised the idea of new talents making their mark by launching with an EP rather than a full album.
This move, he suggested, has since become the go-to method for many emerging Afrobeats stars. He feels that his influence is evident in how new artists structure their careers and release strategies.
Rema’s frustration stems from the fact that, despite this significant impact, many in the music industry, especially its veterans, have been slow to acknowledge his contributions.
He believes that established figures often downplay the role he has played in shaping the contemporary Afrobeats scene.
For Rema, this lack of recognition is particularly frustrating, given that he believes his innovation has helped elevate the genre to new heights and given upcoming artists a blueprint to follow.
The singer reflected on the challenges younger artists face when trying to assert their contributions, noting that it is not always easy for emerging talents to receive credit for their work.
Rema feels that because he is still a relatively young figure in the music world, there is a tendency for people to overlook or undermine his achievements.
This has led him to feel the need to speak up about his contributions, rather than waiting for the industry to acknowledge them on its own.
Rema’s remarks highlight the tension between young artists and established players in the Afrobeats genre, as newer artists push for recognition while more seasoned individuals may be reluctant to embrace the changes they bring.
His insistence on asserting his role in shaping the current landscape reflects a larger narrative within the music industry, where innovation often goes unnoticed until it is widely accepted.
The Nigerian artist’s journey in the Afrobeats scene has been marked by his rapid rise to fame and the influence he has had on the next generation of musicians.
His confidence in his approach and his willingness to challenge the status quo have set him apart, but it remains to be seen how the broader industry will respond to his assertions.
Nevertheless, Rema’s influence on Afrobeats is undeniable, and his contributions continue to inspire many of the artists who have followed in his footsteps.
Source: NewsandVibes.com
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