Nigerian singer Rema has asserted that he is the first Afrobeat artist to tour India.
I’m actually the first Afrobeats artiste to tour India. I’m even probably the first African if I’m not wrong, but if I’m mistaken, please, forgive me. But it’s a huge deal.
The Nigerian artist also addressed reports that he received a substantial $3 million payment for performing at the lavish wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in India.
In an interview with GRM, Rema didn’t explicitly confirm the amount but hinted at its accuracy, saying with a laugh, “Hehehe. That’s all I can say, to be honest. Money-wise, but overall, it was a great experience. It was beautiful.”
Rema also shared his deep appreciation for India and its people, reflecting on the overwhelming support he received during his tour.
He highlighted the significance of his achievement, noting that he might be the first Afrobeat artist, and possibly the first African artist, to tour India.
“I love India, and India loves me too,” Rema remarked.
He touched on how he was once criticized for his music but is now reaping the rewards. “Imagine if I had given in to the trolls and changed my sound. Four years later, it’s all paying off, and there’s still more to come. India is a massive territory.”
Rema emphasized that the attention wasn’t just about the wedding but extended to every aspect of his visit. “When I was touring India, I was surprised by how well-known I was. Everywhere I went, even just to eat, there were paparazzi. The love there is even more intense than in Nigeria.”