Nigerian Afrobeat superstar Rema made history on Monday, October 30, 2023, when he became the first Nigerian artist to perform at the Ballon d’Or ceremony, the prestigious annual award ceremony that recognizes the best football player in the world.
Rema took the stage at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, France, and performed his hit single “Calm Down” to a roaring crowd of football stars and fans alike. Players such as Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi, Robert Lewandowski, and Eden Hazard were all spotted clapping and singing along to the song.
Rema continues to dominate the scene after recently releasing his latest “Ravage” which he posted on his “X” timeline as well, for his fans to enjoy.
He won’t be the first to wave the Afrobeat flag globally, recall Davido, BurnaBoy, and Tiwa Savage have also performed at the World Cup, UEFA Champions League, and the King Charles coronation respectively, a positive sign for the Nigerian musicians on the global stage.
This is the 67th Ballon d’or award ceremony, of which Argentina football star, and former Barcelona, PSG, and currently Inter Miami footballer, Lionel Messi won a record 8th Ballon d’or award setting the record for the highest winner, eclipsing fellow football stars, like Erling Haaland of Manchester city, and Kylian Mbappe of PSG.
