By Milcah Tanimu
Nigerian artist Rema has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first African artist to receive Spotify’s Billion Club Plaque. The recognition comes after Rema’s song “Calm Down” amassed over one billion streams on the popular music streaming platform. The celebration took place at London’s O2 Arena, with a concert headlined by Rema, highlighting the global success of his music.
The O2 Arena, known for its massive 20,000-person capacity, provided a fitting venue for commemorating Rema’s achievements. The concert not only showcased Rema’s talent but also solidified his position as a trailblazer in the international music scene.
“Calm Down” has become a global anthem, resonating with audiences across diverse cultures and regions. The song’s infectious beats, soulful lyrics, and Rema’s distinctive voice have contributed to its widespread popularity, leading to the remarkable milestone of one billion streams on Spotify.
During the event, Spotify representatives presented Rema with a commemorative plaque, recognizing his exceptional accomplishment. The Billion Club Plaque serves as a token of appreciation for Rema’s significant contribution to the global music landscape.
Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music, Sub-Saharan Africa, commented on Rema’s achievement, stating, “Rema’s remarkable achievement of reaching one billion streams on Spotify is a testament to the growth of African music and the continued growth of Afrobeats globally.”
Rema, visibly moved by the honor, expressed gratitude to his fans and supporters worldwide and thanked Spotify for providing a platform that allows artists to connect with a vast audience.
The historic moment was attended by industry insiders, fellow musicians, and fans eager to witness Rema’s groundbreaking achievement. Social media platforms buzzed with excitement as fans congratulated Rema and celebrated the impact of African music on the global stage.
