Rema becomes first African artist on 2025 TIME100 Next list

Afrobeats star Rema has made history as he becomes the only African artist featured on the prestigious 2025 TIME100 Next list, which celebrates the world’s most influential rising stars. 

Rema’s profile for the list was authored by Grammy-winning legend Angélique Kidjo, who hailed his remarkable achievements. 

She highlighted how his success continues the legacy of African icons like Fela Kuti, Miriam Makeba, and Youssou N’Dour, who brought the continent’s sound to the global stage. 

Kidjo wrote: “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. 

“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”. 

This achievement cements Rema’s status as a leading figure in global music.