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Songs from Rema and Tems make Rolling Stones Top Songs of 2024
Nigerian music icons Tems and Rema continue to make waves globally as they land spots on Pitchfork’s prestigious list of the top 100 songs of 2024.
The list, released on November 2, 2024, features Afrobeats among the standout genres, underscoring the global rise of Nigerian music.
Tems‘ infectious track ‘Love Me Jeje‘ was ranked No. 20 on the list. This song, a lead single from her Grammy-nominated debut album ‘Born In The Wild,’ samples the classic ‘Love Me Jeje‘ by Seyi Sodimu and Shaffy Bello.
Pitchfork describes the track as a celebration of carefree yearning, highlighting Tems’ effortless vocal delivery. “On the sun-kissed ‘Love Me Jeje,’ Tems’ voice reminds us that yearning should be playful and unburdened by any insecurities or apprehensions,” the publication notes.
The song blends Afrobeat with R&B influences, with producers GuiltyBeatz and Spax focusing on rhythm, allowing Tems to glide between pockets of melody. The track’s candid moment—where Tems giggles with a friend—captures its essence of lightheartedness and joy.
Meanwhile, Rema’s ‘Ozeba‘ from his Grammy-nominated sophomore album ‘HEIS‘ secured the No. 63 spot on the list. Known for his energetic sound, Rema delivers a more intense and rebellious vibe on this track, marking a shift from his earlier romantic themes.
Pitchfork describes ‘Ozeba‘ as a fierce anthem with pulsating drums and a barrage of taunts. “Gone are the flowery epics about pursuing a tryst; instead, prepare for some good ol’ fashioned shit-talking, especially on ‘Ozeba,'” they write. The song captures Rema’s effort to dominate the Afrobeats dancefloor with his uptempo rage music.
The inclusion of both Tems and Rema on Rolling Stone’s list solidifies their status as international superstars, leading the charge in the global export of Nigerian music.
Their recognition on this global platform serves as a testament to their influence and the growing reach of Afrobeats worldwide.