Rema says Edo culture inspired the art direction for his O2 Arena concert

In 2023, Rema has achieved significant success with his hit single ‘Calm Down,’ culminating in a sold-out show at the O2 Arena.

However, his concert has sparked controversy, with some attendees interpreting elements of demonic undertones in his clothing and stage props.

During the performance, Rema made grand entrances riding a horse in a black robe and a red mask, as well as on the back of a huge bat with red eyes, donned in red and black attire.

These choices reignited discussions about satanism in Rema’s artistic expressions, despite his previous dismissal of such claims and assertion of his Christian faith.

The 23-year-old addressed the controversy on his X (formerly Twitter) account, explaining that his inspiration came from Edo culture. He highlighted how Edo’s awe-inspiring arts were taken by the British in 1897 and are currently housed in the London Museum, far from their rightful place in the Bini Kingdom.

The horse symbolizes Edo art, while the mask is modeled after that of the great Edo monarch Queen Idia.

Rema’s artistic imagery has consistently included esoteric elements, appreciated by some fans for its avant-garde nature but deemed disturbing by others.