"Afrobeats star Rema named first African artist on TIME100 Next 2025 list, praised by Angélique Kidjo for his global impact
Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Rema has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first African artist to be named on the prestigious 2025 TIME100 Next list, which spotlights rising stars shaping the future of global culture.
The 24-year-old hitmaker’s inclusion reflects his extraordinary global influence, with his smash single “Calm Down” crossing the billion streams mark twice—a rare feat in global music.
Rema’s profile for the list was written by Grammy-winning icon Angélique Kidjo, who praised his artistry and impact, linking his success to the legacy of African music pioneers.
“With the recent global explosion of African music, I needed to include some contemporary sounds. I fell in love with Rema’s ‘Calm Down.’ It has a unique flow and feel, not mimicking Western pop; it is rooted in Africa but also catchy and virtuosic. I love to sing it,” Kidjo wrote.
“The young Nigerian superstar has accomplished so much: ‘Calm Down’ has joined the billion-stream club twice over. Rema has performed in stadiums. His latest album earned a Grammy nomination. Rema is the embodiment of the international success of Afrobeats. Thanks to artists like him, African music is at the forefront of global culture.” she added.
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