Rema Explores New Sounds and Themes in ‘Heis’

Ikenna ChurchillJuly 12, 20243 Mins read202

Rema, born Divine Ikubor on May 1, 2000, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and rapper. He gained prominence with his breakout single “Iron Man” in 2019, which caught international attention, including from former U.S. President Barack Obama, who included the song in his summer playlist. Rema is signed to Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records, and is known for his unique blend of Afrobeat, trap, and pop music. His energetic performances and catchy tunes have made him a standout artist in the Nigerian music scene.

Rema’s Sophomore album, Heis, marks his return with a bold and ambitious project following his successful 2022 debut; Rave & Rose, Heis is a heavy collection of songs but a statement of his growth and artistic evolution. The album blends raw Afrobeats that might be traced to his Benin roots with global influences, reflecting his aim to create music that resonates both at home and internationally.

There aren’t many outstanding tracks in the album. “Hehehe,” a playful yet assertive song where Rema addresses his critics with his signature diabolical laughter. “Villain” garnered attention for its subtle sampling of Lana Del Rey’s work. Another standout track is “Benin Boys,” featuring Shallipopi. This song celebrates his roots and the vibrant culture of Benin City, where he grew up. The collaboration brings a fresh energy, combining traditional Afrobeats rhythms with modern beats and electronic elements.

Rema’s track “Calm Down,” featuring Selena Gomez, exemplifies his musical versatility and ability to blend Afrobeats with mainstream pop. Originally released as a solo track on his 2022 album “Rave & Roses,” the song gained massive international attention with the release of a remix featuring Gomez. This collaboration propelled “Calm Down” to new heights, making it a significant hit globally.

The remix, which dropped in August 2022, became an instant success due to its catchy hook and seamless blend of Gomez’s soft vocals with Rema’s smooth melodies. The song’s popularity led to remarkable achievements, including Rema winning the MTV Video Music Award for Best Afrobeats Video, and it became the first African-led track to surpass one billion streams on Spotify.

Rema’s performance at London’s O2 arena further highlighted his growing influence, although it also sparked some controversy, with some accusing him of Satanism due to the darker, moodier imagery in his visuals. At 24, Rema is more mature and more confident in his artistic expression, continually pushing the boundaries of Afrobeats on the global stage.

The production quality of Heis is impeccable, with each track meticulously crafted to highlight Rema’s vocal range and stylistic versatility. The album’s production team includes top-notch producers who have worked to blend traditional African instruments with contemporary electronic sounds. This fusion creates a unique auditory experience that separates Rema from his peers.

Critics have had mixed reactions to Heis. Some praise the album for its boldness and Rema’s willingness to experiment with different sounds and themes, highlighting the album’s ability to capture Rema’s rawness and realness, especially in tracks where he delves deep into personal and cultural themes.

However, some critics feel that Rema’s daring vision on Heis is not fully realised; note that while the album has high points, it sometimes falters in executing its ambitious concepts. Despite this, the overall reception remains positive, with many appreciating Rema’s continuous growth and efforts to push the boundaries of Afrobeats.

Rema’s influence extends beyond music. He is seen as a cultural ambassador, bringing Nigerian music to a global audience. His work in Heis reflects this, integrating global sounds while maintaining a strong sense of his Nigerian heritage. This duality makes his music accessible to a broad audience, fostering a greater appreciation for African music worldwide.

Heis is a testament to Rema’s evolution as an artist. It is a bold project that explores new territories while staying true to his roots. The album’s blend of raw Afrobeats with global influences showcases Rema’s versatility and ability to create music that resonates on multiple levels. Despite some critiques, Heis significantly contributes to the Afrobeats genre and solidifies Rema’s place in the global music scene. Fans and new listeners alike can appreciate the depth and innovation that Rema brings to his music with this album.

WAW RATING: 6/10