Rema Makes History: "Rave & Roses" Breaks Wizkid’s Long-Standing Billboard Record

 

​The global landscape of African music has witnessed a seismic shift as Mavin Records superstar, Rema, officially cements his legacy as a titan of the genre. In a historic update to the Billboard World Albums Chart for the week of February 14, 2026, Rema’s debut studio album, "Rave & Roses," has surpassed the legendary Wizkid’s "Made In Lagos" to become the longest-charting African album in the history of the chart. This milestone is not just a win for the "Calm Down" singer; it is a testament to the enduring global appeal of the "Afrorave" sound.

​Breaking the "Made In Lagos" Streak

​For years, Wizkid’s "Made In Lagos" (MIL) held the crown as the ultimate benchmark for longevity in African music. Released in 2020, MIL spent a staggering 160 weeks on the Billboard World Albums Chart, fueled by the global explosion of the hit single "Essence." Many industry experts believed this record would remain untouched for a generation. However, Rema’s "Rave & Roses," which was released in March 2022, has defied expectations.

​As of the latest Billboard update, "Rave & Roses" has officially clocked its 161st week on the chart, edging out Wizkid by a single week to take the number one spot among African artists. This achievement highlights a shift in how African music is consumed globally, moving from viral moments to sustained, long-term streaming dominance.

​The "Calm Down" Effect: A Global Catalyst

​While "Rave & Roses" is a cohesive body of work featuring hits like "Soundgasm" and "Dirty," there is no denying that the remix of "Calm Down" featuring American pop star Selena Gomez played a pivotal role in this record-breaking run.

​The song became a permanent fixture on global charts, breaking the record for the longest-charting African song on the Billboard Hot 100 and surpassing two billion streams on Spotify. This unprecedented success acted as a gateway, constantly funneling new listeners back to the full album. Unlike many albums that drop off the charts once the lead single fades, "Rave & Roses" maintained a steady presence, proving that Rema has successfully built a "sticky" discography that resonates with international audiences.

​Defining "Afrorave": Rema’s Unique Sonic Blueprint

​One of the primary reasons for the album’s longevity is Rema’s refusal to stick to the traditional Afrobeats formula. By labeling his sound "Afrorave," Rema combined traditional African rhythms with futuristic synths, trap influences, and middle-eastern melodies. This experimental approach made "Rave & Roses" feel fresh and relevant to listeners in North America, Europe, and Asia, helping it survive the fast-paced cycle of the modern music industry.

​Critics initially questioned if Rema’s "another anthem" style would translate into a timeless album. 161 weeks later, the Billboard charts have provided a definitive answer. The album’s themes of young love, fame, and hedonism, paired with high-quality production, have allowed it to outlast contemporary releases.

​What This Means for the Future of Afrobeats

​Rema’s achievement is a significant marker for the "New School" of Nigerian music. While pioneers like Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid laid the foundation, Rema’s record proves that the younger generation is capable of not only matching but exceeding the commercial milestones set by their predecessors.

​This record-breaking moment also signals a maturing market. African albums are no longer just "world music" novelties; they are mainstream contenders that occupy space on global charts for years at a time. The competition between "Rave & Roses" and "Made In Lagos" represents a healthy evolution of the culture, pushing artists to create bodies of work that offer more than just a catchy hook.

​The Road Ahead for Rema

​As Rema celebrates this monumental feat, the music world is already looking toward his next move. Having conquered the Billboard World Albums Chart, the 25-year-old artist has proven he has the stamina to stay at the top. Fans are eagerly anticipating how his sophomore efforts will build upon the foundation of "Rave & Roses."

​For now, the stats are clear: Rema is the new king of Billboard longevity in Africa. Whether it’s his distinct vocal range or his strategic collaborations, the "Prince of Afrobeats" has officially matured into a global king.