Nigerian Afrobeats Star Rema Reacts to $3 Million Performance at Ambani Wedding
Nigerian afrobeats megastar, Rema, has finally addressed the viral reports that he was paid $3 million to perform at the wedding of Anant Ambani, son of Asia’s richest man Mukesh Ambani, and Radhika Merchant, daughter of pharma tycoons Viren and Shaila Merchant.
The event took place on July 12 at the Jio World Centre in Bandra Kurla Centre (BKC), Mumbai.
Rema’s performance made headlines, with Hindustan Times reporting that he was paid a staggering $3 million to perform his global hit song “Calm Down” at the high-profile wedding.
In a recent interview with GRM, Rema was asked about the viral report. His response was both humble and humorous.
Interviewer: “Is it true you got paid $3 million for Ambani’s Wedding in India?”
Rema: “Hehehe. That’s what I can say, to be honest. Money-wise, but overall, it was a great treatment. It was beautiful.
“I love India. India loves me, too. And it’s just beautiful to see something that people trolled me for, criticised me for. And now, I’m benefiting from that.
“Imagine if I stopped. Imagine if I actually listened to the trolls online and switched up my sound.
“Four years later, it paid and still paying and more to come. India is a huge territory. I’m actually the first afrobeats artiste to tour India. I’m even probably the first African if I’m not wrong, but if I’m mistaking, please, forgive me. But it’s a huge deal.
“It’s not just about the wedding. It’s about the reception everywhere I go. I remember when I was touring India, I didn’t even know how they knew. When I go anywhere just to eat, it’s just paparazzi. It’s crazier than the love in Nigeria.”
Rema’s comments highlight his gratitude and amazement at the overwhelming reception he has received in India.
His performance at the Ambani-Merchant wedding not only underscores his international appeal but also marks a significant milestone in his career, showcasing the global reach of afrobeats music.
