“Some artistes copy my style and don’t give credit” – Rema

• Nigerian singer Rema opens up about allegations of his colleagues copying his branding and musical style in an interview with Rolling Stone.
• The artist received six nominations at the 2023 Billboard Music Awards.
• Rema refrains from naming names, instead expressing that he is “flattered” by artists inspired by his work but not offering credit.

In a recent interview with Rolling Stone magazine, Divine Ikubor, known by his stage name Rema, opened up about his experiences in the music industry, particularly addressing allegations that some artistes have been copying his branding and musical style.

The 2023 Billboard Music Awards nominee, who has been making waves in the Afrobeats music scene, received six nominations for his outstanding contributions to the industry.

The talented artist refrained from naming names but expressed his concerns about fellow singers who, in his view, have appropriated his style without giving due credit.

Rema noted that he found it “flattering” that others were inspired by his work, despite the lack of recognition..

Rema went on to explain his aspirations to bring about change within the Afrobeats music scene.

He envisions a transformation in the way the genre is perceived, encompassing not only the sound but also the live shows and branding.

 “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,” he said.