Rema and D’banj
Nigerian Afrobeats star, Rema, delivered a heartfelt tribute to music icon D’banj during his sold-out concert at London’s 02 Arena, declaring, “If you never existed, I would have never existed.”
In an emotional moment that underscored the generational bridge within the Afrobeats movement, Rema brought D’banj on stage to honour his pioneering role in bringing the genre to global audiences. He credited D’banj’s international breakthrough—particularly with the 2012 chart-topping hit ‘Oliver Twist’—for paving the way for artists like himself.
“First of all, I want to appreciate you for opening the doors. We [the new generational artists] do not do it alone,” Rema said, as the crowd roared in support. “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.”
Rema’s tribute struck a deep chord with fans and industry observers, reminding everyone of how far Afrobeats has come—and the icons who helped build the path.
“I appreciate you for life. I love you from the bottom of my heart,” Rema added, embracing D’banj on stage in a symbolic passing of the torch moment.