Rema reigns at Madison Square Garden: 5 best moments

Rema cemented the genre’s latest Big Four at his New York show.

Nigerian superstar Rema made a thunderous debut at Madison Square Garden on May 2, solidifying his spot among Afrobeats’ elite with a bold, theatrical performance that mixed myth-making spectacle with undeniable musical prowess. The concert, part of his global Heis World Tour, celebrated his Grammy-nominated album Heis and a career that’s grown exponentially since his 2019 breakout.

Here are the five standout moments from his unforgettable night in New York:

1. A Cinematic Entrance Fit for a King

Rema launched the show atop a levitating platform, brandishing a machete and cloaked in a dramatic fur coat as drums pounded beneath a booming voice that proclaimed him “a man, a myth, a legend.” The self-mythologizing worked — the moment felt larger-than-life, setting the tone for the rest of the night.

2. A Genre-Bending Setlist

From fiery anthems like “March Am” and “Azaman” to slow burners like “Soundgasm,” Rema’s setlist traversed Afrobeats, R&B, and rock, showcasing his genre-defying talent. Even without strict thematic cohesion, the sheer volume of hits — including viral smashes like “Calm Down” and “Dumebi” — kept the energy peaking throughout.

3. Romantic Vibes with a Kiss Cam Interlude

In a more intimate segment, a surprise kiss cam set the mood for sultrier tracks like “Favorite Girl” and “Bout U.” This portion of the show allowed Rema to slow things down and flaunt his romantic, R&B-tinged side — much to the delight of the crowd.

4. Visual Aesthetics with Symbolic Staging

Much of the performance took place atop what resembled a dungeon entrance, reinforcing Heis’ darker, mythic vibe. Although he didn’t use the runway extensively, the stage’s symbolic layout, paired with theatrical visuals and clever choreography, made for a captivating watch.

5. “Charm” Comes Alive – and So Do His Fans

A highlight of the night was a vivid, almost frame-for-frame recreation of the “Charm” music video. Paired with unexpected harmonies from his talented background vocalists, the live version added new dimension to the track. The female performers brought warmth and balance, subtly complementing Rema’s intense presence.

From grand theatrics to heartfelt moments, Rema’s MSG debut wasn’t just a concert — it was a full-blown statement of intent. The Prince of Afrobeats has clearly ascended to the genre’s royal court.