Since June 24, Nigerian Afrobeat star Rema has released three visualizers that have left the Afrobeats community guessing and speculating. The teasers, titled “Hehehe,” “March Am,” and “HEIS,” feature gritty visuals, strange bat-like symbols, and an undeniably different sound, sparking widespread debate among fans.
While some fans are excited about what they call the “new Rema,” others are skeptical, questioning the artist’s new direction. One fan wrote, “What is really happening to Rema? We are losing the Rema we know.” Another commented, “So you’re serious about dropping this kind of song?”
Commentators like @valking drew parallels with other artists, noting, “You don dey sing like Seyi Vibes oh.” @TheBoykayy added, “See wetin one song with Shallipopi don cause?” @ihrtcj pointed out on Instagram, “If you listen to Carti, you can hear the inspiration.” Meanwhile, @memeplug001 remarked, “See ppl wey wan save Afrobeat. God abeg oo.”
However, not everyone is opposed to Rema’s new direction. Shallipopi, who collaborated with Rema on “Benin Boys,” was elated with the switch-up, commenting, “Unleash the Evian in you, blood!” Other fans, like @OGBdeyforyou, were in sync with the change, saying, “Benin boys no dey take last, Eje you too good.” @Deyvxxd_ also remarked, “Indian Rema LFGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG.”
Rumors are circulating that these teasers are part of Rema’s upcoming EP, potentially titled “HEIS.” If confirmed, it would be his first major project since “Rave and Roses,” released in March 2022, which remains the most-streamed African project to date.
Fans may be divided, but Rema’s resolve in exploring new sounds seems unshaken, evidenced by his release of “Hehehe” on July 8. Only time will tell whether a few online opinions translate to actual public perception.