This week, Nigerian artist Rema’s hit song ‘Calm Down’ made history in the United States, and fans are loving it. According to Chart Data, it has become the most-streamed Afrobeats track in the country, surpassing one billion on-demand streams. This is the first time a song from this genre has reached such a huge streaming figure in the US.
Rema released the song in February 2022 as a single from his debut album “Rave and Roses.” It drew a lot of attention upon its release and gained even more when he collaborated with US singer Selena Gomez on a remix. Currently, the “Calm Down” remix has amassed over 890 million views on YouTube. It also became the first African song to spend an entire year on the Billboard Hot 100.
In addition, the song’s reign at number one on the Billboard US Afrobeats Songs chart spanned an impressive 52 weeks, revealing its widespread appeal and popularity. Music analysts for Billboard magazine believe that the song’s success could be due to its “melancholic slow jam” quality, which has a “subtle hypnotic draw” that lingers in listeners’ minds, prompting repeated plays. You can watch the video below.
“Calm Down” had already secured multiple accolades before this milestone. The song entered the Guinness World Records in November 2022. It earned the title of being the First No.1 Hit on The Official MENA Chart.
Rema’s influence in the global music scene is undeniable. His unique style of Afrobeats, which he terms “Afrorave,” greatly reflects his distinctive musical identity. It propelled him into the esteemed ranks of prominent Nigerian Afrobeats artists. Ones like Burna Boy, Wizkid and Davido.
His achievement with “Calm Down” is definitely a testament to the growing global recognition of African music. The song’s popularity proves that great music can transcend borders and be appreciated by people everywhere, regardless of their cultural backgrounds.
