Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Rema is making headlines again, and this time, it’s not just because of a viral hit or a sold-out tour. At the 2025 Wireless Festival, Canadian superstar Drake brought out Rema during his historic three-day headline set, giving fans a moment that felt as monumental as it was symbolic.
Performing his global hit “Ozeba”, off his Grammy-nominated album HEIS, Rema lit up the stage once again at Wireless, a platform he’s graced in both 2022 and 2024. But this time, the energy was different. The stakes were higher. And the co-sign? Colossal.
Drake, a musical titan with more than a decade of chart-topping success and global influence, didn’t just bring Rema out for spectacle. The performance sandwiched in a weekend packed with guest stars sent a clear message: Rema has ascended into the upper echelon of global music.
A Long Time Coming
And fans are hopeful. During his set, Drake previewed a new track featuring British rapper Central Cee, and speculation is now swirling that Rema could also appear on the same project, expected to be released in 2025. If that happens, he’ll join Wizkid and Tems as elite Nigerian acts who have collaborated with the 6 God, a serious badge of honour in today’s global music scene.
The Big 4 Debate
Rema’s appearance alongside Drake doesn’t just make for a great headline; it adds fuel to a bigger conversation in the Afrobeats space: Is Rema now part of the “Afrobeats Big 4”?
Traditionally, the “Big 3” in Afrobeats refers to Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy —artists who have not only dominated the Nigerian music scene for over a decade but have also played pivotal roles in bringing Afrobeats to a global audience. But in recent years, Rema has consistently made a case for himself as the fourth pillar in that lineup, not just through numbers and accolades, but through moments like this.
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During his HEIS world tour, Rema boldly performed against a striking backdrop featuring wax figures of Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy; a symbolic visual that many interpreted as him staking a claim to be counted among the greats. It wasn’t subtle. It was a declaration. And with each milestone, from his global chart presence to brand partnerships and now, a major co-sign from Drake, that declaration gains more legitimacy.
A Global Star in His Own Right
Since his breakout hit “Dumebi,” Rema has evolved far beyond a teen heartthrob or viral sensation. With his unique sound blending Afrobeats, trap, and futuristic pop, he carved out a new lane that set him apart from his peers. His debut album, Rave & Roses, introduced him to the world. Still, it was HEIS, with songs like “Ozeba,” that solidified his status as a global contender, earning him a Grammy nomination and widespread critical acclaim.
His ambition matches his artistry. While many artists rely on the comfort of the local scene, Rema has consistently pushed boundaries, from performing at Coachella and the Ballon d’Or ceremony to topping charts in India and collaborating with international acts like Selena Gomez and 6lack. His wireless moment with Drake is less a breakout than it is a continuation of a steady, strategic ascent.
The Verdict
As the world awaits a potential Drake x Rema collaboration, one thing is clear: Rema is not knocking on the door of greatness; he’s already inside the room.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why is Rema’s appearance at Wireless Festival 2025 significant?
A: Rema performed alongside Drake during his headlining set at Wireless Festival, signalling a major co-sign and reinforcing Rema’s growing global influence.
Q: Have Rema and Drake released a song together?
A: Not officially. However, a 2024 leak hinted at a collaboration, and their recent joint appearance strengthens speculation that a track may be forthcoming.
Q: What is the “Afrobeats Big 4”?
A: The term “Big 3” traditionally refers to Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy, artists credited with globalising Afrobeats. With his rise, Rema is being touted as the fourth name in that elite group.
Q: What song did Rema perform at the Wireless Festival?
A: Rema performed Ozeba, a fan favourite from his Grammy-nominated album HEIS.
Q: What makes Rema different from his peers?
A: Rema’s blend of Afrobeats with trap, pop, and futuristic elements, along with his global vision and high-profile collaborations, sets him apart as a new kind of African music star.