“Benin Boys” honours the Benin people and their enduring legacy. It features two beloved figures from the tribe: Rema, who is making waves globally with performances at iconic venues like O2 Arena and Mitsubishi’s Electric Halle. Shallipoppi has also captured hearts across Nigeria and beyond, thrilling Afrobeats enthusiasts with hits like Obapluto, Cast, and Oscroh.
A Touch At Shallipopi, Rema’s Similar Roots
The song vividly portrays their roots, both artists born in the former capital of one of Africa’s greatest civilization. The Benin Kingdom spans from Nigeria’s Niger Delta through Lagos to almost Accra in the West.
Furthermore, the song celebrates the strength and unity of the Benin Boys, emphasizing their close-knit brotherhood. It also expresses a preference for relying on their brothers rather than the police, trusting traditional institutions over conventional law enforcement, as echoed in the lyrics:
“Na my Benin brothers I go call before I call olopaa o if anything kpa o”
“Touch Benin boy, you don touch the full nation”
In addition, the musical work of art highlights the financial prowess of the Benin Boys in the words:
“E get why dem dey call us Benin boys, we no dey make too much noise Na we dey pull up with convoy”
The Benin people are known for their resourcefulness and entrepreneurial spirit. They share these traits with the Igbo, and are prominent among Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad.
Rema, Breaking Out Amid Rumours Of Troubled Label Exit
Rema, born Divine Ikubor in Benin City in 2000, faces rumors about leaving his record label, Jonzing World. The Mavin Records subsidiary hasn’t given any official confirmation on his exit at this time. Reports suggest Rema bought out his contract with the label, showcasing his lavish spending habits.
Shallipopi, Continuing Dominance After Troubled Start
Shallipopi, born Crown Uzama in Benin City in 2000, has endeared himself to Nigerians musically. His relatable lyrics and laid-back style gives him the edge. Despite early brushes with authority, including a conviction for Internet fraud alongside his manager in June 2023, he has prospered.
Additionally, he carved out a niche in music and his song “Benin Boys” currently tops Apple and Shazam Top 10 Naija charts.
“Benin Boys” Music Video’s Cultural Richness
The music video is directed by the acclaimed Director K. Known for visuals like Davido’s 1 Milli, Wizkid’s Essence featuring Tems, and Burna Boy’s Wonderful, the video is a visual spectacle. It immerses viewers in the rich culture of Benin, featuring statues, monuments of Benin monarchs, and historical figures. The video showcases exquisite reliefs and renowned Benin art and craft.
Shallipopi X Rema Showcasing The Resilience And “Flex” Of Benin Boys
It captures the resilience of the Benin Boys, portraying models with a tough exterior. The visuals epitomizes the phrase “when the going gets tough, the tough gets going.”
Again, the video also portrays Rema and Shallipopi as prominent figures in Nigeria’s flex culture, adorned with luxurious bling and arriving at airports in private jets and departing in luxury cars.
Final Words
“Benin Boys” promises to be a street anthem in the fast-paced world of Nigerian Afrobeat—a powerful collaboration that resonates deeply. Here’s hoping it dominates the charts for a long time!
