Rema Says He Enjoys Being Trolled, Credits Online Criticism for His Global Success

Nigerian Afrobeats star Rema has said he finds joy in being trolled online, revealing that social media criticism has played a key role in his growth and international success.

In a recent video interview shared on social media, the singer reflected on his journey in the music industry and how persistent online trolling has, unexpectedly, helped him thrive.

“It is beautiful to see something that people troll and criticise me for. And, you know what? I’m benefiting from that,” Rema said. “Imagine if I had stopped or listened to trolls. Like if I should say, ‘Oh, I think I should switch it off.’”

The Calm Down hitmaker, who has often faced skepticism for his distinct sound and experimental style, said he could have abandoned his ambitions early on. But instead, he stayed the course — and it paid off.

“And four years later, it paid and it paid. And more to come,” he added. “It’s a huge territory, right? And I was actually the first Afrobeat [artist] to tour India. And I even came from Africa if I’m not mistaken. But it is a huge deal.”

Rema’s comments come amid ongoing conversations about how artists deal with online criticism and how public perception can shape or shatter careers. For Rema, however, the negativity served as fuel.