Benin Boys
Afrobeats lead single celebrating Benin City culture and pride.
"Benin Boys" (stylized in all caps) is a song by Nigerian artists Rema and Shallipopi. Released on 20 June 2024, it is the lead single from Rema's album Heis. The track features an Afrobeats rhythm, and its music video came out the following day.
Quick Facts
- Artist
- Rema and Shallipopi
- Album
- Heis
- Released
- 20 June 2024
- Recorded
- 2024
- Genre
- Afrobeats; amapiano
- Label
- Mavin
- Virgin
- WCM
- Writer
- Divine Ikubor
- Agada Prince Oyada
- Crown Uzama
- Producer
- Rema; Producer X
Facts from the source article.
Composition
The track is built on a strong Afrobeats foundation, using percussion, a deep bassline, and keyboard synths. Its harmonic core uses C minor and G7 chords to give the song an upbeat, celebratory energy. In the lyrics, Rema and Shallipopi boast about their wealth and cultural roots, blending pride in their heritage with aspirational themes. The verses are delivered in a confident, proud style that celebrates both their origins and their success.
Background
Following the song's release, Rema and Shallipopi shared a studio clip on social media on 30 January 2024. Produced by X and co-produced by Rema, the track is a musical celebration of Benin City culture. In an interview, Rema revealed his aim: to craft a song that showcases his cultural pride while connecting with his audience on a deeper level, fostering community and shared identity among listeners.
Critical reception
Oumou Fofana, a music critic for BET, described the song as "a dynamic exchange of verses over heavy drums and electrifying background strings, showcasing Rema and Shallipopi's lyrical prowess and musical chemistry." Fofana's assessment highlights the track's energetic and infectious beat, which combines traditional drum patterns with modern string arrangements, creating a unique sound that blends cultural heritage with contemporary style.
Music video
A music video for the song was released on 21 June 2024. The video, directed by Director K, features the two artists in distinct settings, with Rema perched on an airplane flap and Shallipopi posing alongside a car. The visuals also incorporate elements of Benin culture, including the prominent display of the Benin Ancestral Bronzes. Additionally, the video features imagery of bats, which symbolize the Benin symbol.
Credits and personnel
Divine Ikubor – songwriting, composition. Crown Uzama – songwriting, composition. Agada Prince Oyada – songwriting, composition, production. Divine Ikubor – co-production. George Momoh – mastering.
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