Nigerian superstar Rema has publicly paid tribute to Afrobeats icon D’banj, crediting him as a pioneer whose efforts laid the foundation for the global success of Nigerian music—especially in the United Kingdom.
During his sold-out concert at London’s O2 Arena on Sunday, Rema brought D’banj on stage in a heartfelt moment that quickly became the highlight of the night. He used the occasion to recognize the veteran’s trailblazing impact on the genre and his role in taking Afrobeats beyond Africa.
“First of all, I want to appreciate you for opening the doors. We [the new generation artists] did not do it alone. You were one of the first ones to bring Afrobeats to the UK. You and Don Jazzy held it down. Y’all opened that door.”
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D’banj’s Legacy: Oliver Twist and the UK Breakthrough
Rema specifically referenced D’banj’s 2012 global smash hit “Oliver Twist”, which became the first Nigerian song to break into the UK Top 10 Official Charts—a massive milestone for the Afrobeats movement.
“I appreciate you for life. I love you from the bottom of my heart. If you never existed, I would have never existed,” Rema declared, visibly emotional as the crowd roared with applause.
Oliver Twist was a cultural reset—fusing Afrobeats with UK club culture and even earning co-signs from international stars like Kanye West. For many fans and industry watchers, it marked the beginning of Afrobeats’ global takeover.
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Generational Bridge in Nigerian Music
Rema’s gesture is a reminder of the importance of acknowledging those who paved the way, especially in an industry where legacy can sometimes be overlooked in the rush for new hits. By spotlighting D’banj in front of a UK audience, Rema built a symbolic bridge between Afrobeats past and Afrobeats future.
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A Powerful Moment for Afrobeats History
In an era where Nigerian artists are dominating global charts and selling out international arenas, Rema’s words echoed a powerful truth: today’s victories are rooted in yesterday’s sacrifices. His tribute to D’banj wasn’t just about music—it was about legacy, gratitude, and the unbroken journey of Afrobeats from Lagos to London and beyond.
