By Eniola Daniel
17 November 2023 |
6:42 pm
Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Divine Ikubor, known professionally as Rema, has been honoured by streaming platform Spotify for his achievement in his hit track ‘Calm Down’, featuring Selena Gomez reaching an astonishing 1 billion streams on the platform.
Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Divine Ikubor, known professionally as Rema, has been honoured by streaming platform Spotify for his achievement in his hit track ‘Calm Down’, featuring Selena Gomez reaching an astonishing 1 billion streams on the platform.
Spotify presented Rema with a commemorative plaque, recognizing his exceptional accomplishment, as the first ever African artiste to receive Spotify’s Billion Club Plaque, while also serving as a token of appreciation for his contribution to the global music landscape.
Rema’s ‘Calm Down’ has become a global anthem, resonating with audiences across diverse cultures and regions. The song’s blend of infectious beats, soulful lyrics, and Rema’s distinctive voice has captivated listeners since its release. The 1 billion streams milestone on Spotify is a clear indication of the track’s widespread popularity and enduring appeal.
The event took place at the O2 arena, which has a staggering 20,000-person capacity, a fitting venue for celebrating the global success of Rema’s music. Headlined by Rema himself, the concert was a testament to the artist’s talent and the massive impact his work has had on the music industry in Africa and beyond. The concert not only showcased Rema’s exceptional achievements but also solidified his status as a trailblazer in the international music scene.
While presenting the plaque, Spotify’s Head of Music, Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu, said: “Rema’s remarkable achievement of reaching one billion streams on Spotify is a testament to the growth of African music and the continued growth of Afrobeats globally. Receiving his Spotify one billion plaque at his first headlined O2 Arena Show marks a significant moment in history,”. “We are thrilled to witness this first of its kind moment for an African artist-led track on Spotify, and we eagerly anticipate many more African artists reaching this milestone.”
Rema, visibly moved by the honour, expressed gratitude to his fans and supporters worldwide and thanked Spotify for providing a platform that allows artists to connect with a vast audience.
The O2 concert was attended by industry insiders, fellow musicians, and fans eager to witness this historic moment. Social media platforms buzzed with excitement as fans congratulated Rema on this achievement, celebrating the impact of African music on the global stage.
