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• Infinity Media
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Celebrating Rema And Selena Gomez's "Calm Down" As It Hits 1 Billion Views On Youtube

Rema's 2022 hit single "Calm Down," featuring Selena Gomez in a remix, has become a monumental success, achieving over 1 billion views on YouTube as of November 2024. This milestone cements the song's place in Afrobeats history, making it one of the most-watched Afrobeats videos on the platform. Since its release, "Calm Down" has resonated globally, not only topping streaming charts but also opening new avenues for African music on an international scale.

Global Chart Success and Cultural Impact

"Calm Down" first took root as part of Rema's album Rave & Roses, released in February 2022. The remix with Selena Gomez introduced the song to even wider audiences, bridging Nigerian and Western music markets. It reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, a feat that not only demonstrated the international appeal of Afrobeats but also positioned Rema among the select African artists to make significant inroads into the U.S. music scene. The song also held records on streaming platforms; for example, it achieved one billion streams on Spotify, marking one of the highest figures for an Afrobeats track to date​.

The collaboration between Rema and Gomez has been more than just a music hit; it’s also been a cultural bridge, introducing millions to Afrobeats' distinctive rhythm and vibe. With its infectious beat and universally relatable lyrics about love and connection, "Calm Down" struck a chord that transcended geographic boundaries, leading to an enthusiastic fanbase from Lagos to Los Angeles.

Awards and Recognitions

The success of "Calm Down" has been accompanied by numerous accolades. In the 16th Headies Awards held in Atlanta, Rema clinched multiple awards, in part due to the song's success. Additionally, at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards, the song was nominated for Best Afrobeats Song, Best Collaboration, and Song of the Year. These recognitions highlight the song's impact and underscore its significance in the wider music landscape​.

In terms of certification, "Calm Down" achieved platinum status in multiple regions, including the UK and India, where it became the second longest-charting African song. Its impressive run on the Billboard Hot 100 also made it the longest-charting Afrobeats song on the platform, surpassing an entire year on the chart​.

A Pivotal Moment for Afrobeats

The success of "Calm Down" reflects the growing influence of African music worldwide. Rema's achievement, alongside contributions from artists like Burna Boy and Wizkid, is expanding the reach of Afrobeats and positioning it as a genre that resonates globally. Rema’s milestone on YouTube with "Calm Down" marks a new high for Nigerian music, providing both inspiration and a blueprint for future collaborations between African and Western artists.

This milestone is a testament to the enduring appeal of Afrobeats and the genre's capacity to make waves far beyond Africa. By reaching 1 billion views, "Calm Down" has not only set records but has also paved the way for greater global visibility for African artists. As the genre continues to flourish, it’s likely we’ll see even more collaborations and record-breaking achievements in the near future.