In a historic achievement for African music, Nigerian artist Rema’s hit song “Calm Down” has surpassed one billion streams in the United States, as reported by Chart Data on June 17, 2024. This milestone marks a significant moment for Afrobeats, highlighting its growing influence and popularity on the global stage.
“Calm Down” is the lead single from Rema’s 2022 album “Raves & Roses.” The song’s infectious rhythm and catchy lyrics quickly made it a fan favorite. The song’s appeal was further amplified with the release of a remix featuring American pop star Selena Gomez, included on the deluxe version of the album. This remix has not only contributed to the song’s success but also set a new record as the first Afrobeats and African song to reach one billion on-demand streams in the US. Such a feat underscores the song’s widespread acceptance and the growing appreciation for Afrobeats music in international markets.
Moreover, “Calm Down” holds the distinction of being the most-streamed Afrobeats song on Spotify, showcasing its digital dominance. The song’s popularity extends to YouTube, where the original music video has garnered over 596 million views. This makes it the most-viewed music video by a Nigerian artist on the platform. The remix video featuring Selena Gomez has surpassed the original’s impressive view count, amassing over 893 million views and continuing to grow. These staggering numbers reflect not only the song’s widespread appeal but also the powerful visual storytelling that accompanies Rema’s music.
The collaboration with Selena Gomez played a crucial role in catapulting “Calm Down” to global acclaim. Gomez’s involvement brought additional international attention to the track, bridging diverse musical worlds and introducing Afrobeats to new audiences. Her presence on the remix added a layer of crossover appeal, making the song accessible to a broader demographic and enhancing its streaming performance.
These viewership figures and streaming milestones underscore the dynamic and evolving landscape of global music consumption. They also highlight how African artists are increasingly breaking into mainstream markets, challenging traditional music industry norms. Rema’s success with “Calm Down” is a testament to the rising influence of Afrobeats on the global music scene. This genre, characterized by its vibrant beats and rhythmic complexity, is gaining recognition and appreciation far beyond the African continent.
Rema’s achievement is more than just a personal triumph; it symbolizes a broader shift in the music industry. It highlights the growing acceptance and celebration of African music on the world stage. The success of “Calm Down” signals a new era where African artists are not only participating in but also shaping global music trends. This milestone paves the way for other African musicians to gain international recognition and success, encouraging a more diverse and inclusive music industry.
The powerful combination of music and visuals employed by Afrobeats artists like Rema is a key factor in their ability to captivate audiences worldwide. The engaging and high-energy nature of Afrobeats, coupled with visually striking music videos, creates a compelling package that resonates with listeners and viewers alike. Rema’s “Calm Down” is a prime example of this phenomenon, demonstrating how African music is making waves and leaving a lasting impact on the global music landscape.
In conclusion, Rema’s record-breaking success with “Calm Down” is a landmark achievement for African music. It exemplifies the genre’s potential to transcend cultural boundaries and achieve mainstream success. As Afrobeats continues to gain momentum, it will undoubtedly inspire and pave the way for future generations of African artists to make their mark on the world stage.
