Nigeria: Rema reveals inspiration behind debut album

Rave & Roses was released by Mavin Global/Jonzing World and arrives three years after Rema found mainstream success with singles like ‘Iron Man’ and ‘Dumebi’. The musician is also behind three 2019 EPs, namely, Rema, Rema Freestyle and Bad Commando.

The album was heralded by the release of singles ‘Soundgasm’, ‘Calm Down’ and ‘FYN’ featuring British act AJ Tracey. Other guests on the album are US acts Chris Brown and 6lack, as well as French singer-songwriter Yseult.

The album finds the artist exploring myriad sounds starting with Afropop before experimenting with trap, reggaeton and Bollywood-inspired melodies. Thematically, the work straddles Rema’s dual personality – that of youthful recklessness and sensitive emotions.

“This album has different moods, different stories,” Rema said. “Just the recording process had different reasons that carried me to the studio, moments that just came out of the blue, but with the same goal. I didn’t have a solid written plan, so I literally approached this album with no fear or pressure.

“Every project will have different meanings to me, aside from the story they tell – but this one is a ‘sound-sealer’, and it’s that bridge to bring the fans closer to Rema.”

Earlier this month, Rema announced plans to issue non-fungible tokens (NFTs) alongside Rave & Roses. “You all gonna have an NFT. I don’t want my new album just to be for me or my team. I want ‘ravers’ to benefit from it,” he said.

“There is so much going to be tied to the NFT project. For example, you are going to have discount tickets to all my shows, free birthday shout outs and other amazing benefits.”