Dare Babalola
Rema, the Nigerian Afrobeats sensation, has spilled the beans on his pre-show rituals.
Speaking with Dazed on the sidelines of Milan Fashion Week, where he slaced Diesel’s runway, the singer revealed he gets ready to slay the stage with a mix of vices and vibes – a drink or two, some cigarettes, and a prayer.
He added that he also does sound-check with his team to make sure modalities are in place for a good performance.
“A little Tequila, a little cigarette, pray, tap in with the team and make sure everything is on cue,” he stated when asked about his pre-show rituals.
Rema said performing is more stressful than walking on runway, stressing that “performing has a lot to do with your breathwork and you have to keep the crowd going.”
On the music that has been inspiring him lately, Rema said “I have been listening to a lot of Sudanese cultural live music.”
He admitted that smoking cigarettes is his “biggest vice.”
In July 2025, the singer rebranded by ditching his signature mask, Teddy bear, and embracing tattoos, smoking, and darker colours. He also changed his sound and aesthetics.
Speaking on the one year anniversary of his sophomore album on Thursday, Rema clarified that his rebranding, including smoking, was just an expression of art and not betrayal of his personality as many presumed.
