Afrobeats superstar, Divine Ikubor, known professionally as Rema, delivered a thrilling performance at the 2023 Ballon d’Or award on Monday. Rema’s electrifying performance at the ceremony which took place in Paris, France captivated the audience, showcasing his incredible talent and stage presence
In a groundbreaking moment for both the music and sports worlds, Nigerian music sensation Rema took center stage at the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony held in France, showcasing the growing influence of Afrobeat on a global scale. The event, which also crowned Lionel Messi as the winner of the Ballon d’Or for an unprecedented eighth time, recognised the outstanding talents of Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe as the runners-up.
Rema, known for his chart-topping hits and infectious
Afrobeat rhythms, delivered a mesmerizing performance of his global sensation
‘Calm Down’ to an audience that included football legends, sports enthusiasts,
and music aficionados. The young crooner’s appearance marked a significant
moment, as it highlighted the already increasing synergy between music and
sports, with Afrobeat in particular gaining prominence in sport locker rooms
and worldwide.
Taking to his social media platforms after the exhilarating
performance, Rema expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent
Afrobeat on such a grand stage. He humbly attributed his success to divine
grace, stating, “Afrobeat in Ballon d’Or! I’m truly grateful for the
opportunity. Glory to the most high for the grace.”
Rema’s inclusion at the Ballon d’Or ceremony symbolises the
growing recognition of Afrobeat as a global music genre that resonates with
diverse audiences. Videos of famous sport stars have been seen playing
Afrobeats songs in the locker rooms after games or celebrating victories. Other
Afrobeats artist Burna Boy early this year performed at the champions league
final with the likes of Davido also performing at the World Cup. With the Super
Bowl looming even closer, there is a possibility to have a themed Afrobeats
Super Bowl halftime show which will be historic.
Rema’s electrifying performance at the ceremony which took place in Paris, France captivated the audience, showcasing his incredible talent and stage presence pic.twitter.com/k7Bm0yScQU
— Brand Icon Image (@BrandIconImage) October 31, 2023
The Ballon d’Or event also witnessed a historic moment in
women’s football, as Aitana Bonmat of Barcelona’s female side was awarded the
female Ballon d’Or. Bonmat’s remarkable achievements and contributions to the
sport were acknowledged, highlighting the continued progress and recognition of
women’s football on an international scale.
With Afrobeats inclusion on the Ballon d’Or stage, the music
genre’s global influence has reached new heights, reflecting its ability to
unite people across cultures and transcend boundaries. Rema’s captivating
performance serves as a testament to the power of music to inspire and
entertain, while also shedding light on the immense talent emerging from
Africa.