Nigerian artist Rema has boldly staked his claim to generational greatness in his latest single, “HEHEHE,” where he declares his position in the “big four” of Afrobeats.
The Benin City-raised artist, who burst onto the Nigerian music scene five years ago, has undeniably become one of the brightest shining superstars in Afrobeats. In this self-aggrandizing declaration, Rema asserts his place alongside the gilded Nigerian big 3 of Afrobeats, Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy.
The music on “HEHEHE,” helmed by Producer X, is grandiose and haunting, featuring delightfully staggering drums and spooky piano chord samples. This experimental bounce for Rema showcases a hoarse-voiced cadence and slightly off-kilter flow, with a distinct Benin twang to his delivery and line choices.
At just shy of two minutes, “HEHEHE” is likely to inspire multiple listens, featuring a stack of already quotable lyrics. This new single follows on the heels of last month’s “BENIN BOYS” with Shallipopi and sets an expectant tone for a sophomore album from Rema.
Rema’s journey from Benin City to global stardom has been nothing short of remarkable. His rise to prominence has been marked by a string of hits that have made him one of the most exciting acts in the ascendant Afrobeats genre. His signature sound combines comic-book references, trap beats, and melodic avalanches, catching the attention of industry heavyweights and even former U.S. President Barack Obama.
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