Rema delivered a heartfelt tribute to D’banj during his performance at London’s O2 Arena.

Rema Honors D’banj in Emotional Tribute at London’s O2 Arena

During his electrifying performance at London’s O2 Arena, Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Rema took a poignant moment to celebrate music legend D’banj, recognizing his immense impact on the global rise of Afrobeats. 

In a powerful generational moment, Rema welcomed D’banj on stage, praising him as a trailblazer who laid the foundation for today’s Nigerian artists. The Calm Down singer highlighted D’banj’s historic contributions, particularly his 2012 smash Oliver Twist, which became the first Nigerian song to break into the UK’s official top 10—a pivotal milestone that helped Afrobeats gain international recognition. 

“You were one of the first to bring Afrobeats to the UK. You and Don Jazzy held it down. Y’all opened that door,” Rema said emotionally. He then expressed deep gratitude, declaring, “I appreciate you for life. I love you from the bottom of my heart. If you never existed, I would have never existed.”

The touching tribute reached its peak when D’banj presented Rema with The O2’s commemorative plaque, marking the young star’s second headline performance at the iconic venue—a testament to his growing global influence. 

As the two artists embraced, the crowd erupted in cheers, witnessing a heartfelt exchange between a pioneer and the new generation carrying Afrobeats forward. The moment underscored D’banj’s enduring legacy and the profound connection between the artists shaping the genre’s past, present, and future.