"I Like the Underdog Story": Dremo Opens Up on Being Underrated in the Nigerian Music Scene

 

The Nigerian music industry is often celebrated for its global exports and record-breaking Afrobeats stars, but for those in the rap sub-genre, the journey to recognition is frequently uphill. On Thursday, April 2, 2026, popular rapper Aboriomoh Femi Raymond, known professionally as Dremo, sparked a viral conversation after candidly admitting that he feels significantly "underrated" by the Nigerian audience.

​In a deeply personal interview on the EchooRoom podcast with media personality Teddy A, the former Davido Music Worldwide (DMW) signee lamented the lack of accolades and appreciation for his studio craft. While his comments carry a touch of frustration, they also reveal a resilient artist who has embraced his "underdog" status as he navigates the complexities of an evolving industry.

​"Dem No Rate Me at All": The Struggle for Recognition

​Dremo’s admission wasn't just a fleeting comment; it was a reflection on a career that has seen him deliver some of the sharpest verses in Nigerian hip-hop, yet often without the mainstream fanfare reserved for pop stars. During the interview, he expressed that the general public remains largely unaware of his true capabilities behind the scenes.

​"I feel like I am so underrated. People don't know what I can do in the studio," Dremo stated. He further emphasized the sentiment in Pidgin, saying, "Dem no rate me at all," highlighting a perceived disconnect between his talent and the "rating" or respect he receives from the industry and fans alike.

​The "Rap vs. Afrobeats" Dilemma in Nigeria

​A significant portion of Dremo’s frustration stems from the current musical climate in Nigeria. While Afrobeats and Pop continue to dominate airwaves and streaming charts, Rap has increasingly become a "niche" genre, often struggling for the same level of commercial investment and airplay.

​Dremo attributed his "underrated" status partly to this genre bias. He suggested that many Nigerians do not appreciate the intricacies of rap music as much as they do more melodic, dance-heavy genres. This cultural shift has left many talented lyricists feeling sidelined, as the industry’s "ego" and commercial focus tend to favor sounds that provide immediate viral appeal over lyrical depth.

​Life After DMW: Why Dremo Chose Independence

​The interview also provided a rare look into Dremo's time at Davido Music Worldwide (DMW). While being associated with one of Africa’s biggest superstars, Davido, provided a massive platform, Dremo revealed that the experience did not entirely meet his professional expectations.

​He disclosed that the label's management often focused heavily on the CEO, Davido, sometimes to the detriment of other artists on the roster.

• ​Lack of Collaboration: Dremo noted that despite having talented label mates, there were few internal collaborations and no joint label album—a missed opportunity for synergy.
• ​The Platform vs. Profit: He described the label as more of a "platform" than a financial engine for his career, stating, "The label didn't give me money... I didn't get what I wanted."

​These challenges ultimately influenced his decision to remain an independent artist, a move that allows him full creative control even if it means a harder path to the top.

​Embracing the "Underdog" Narrative

​Despite the perceived lack of recognition, Dremo remains optimistic. He noted that he has grown to enjoy the "underdog story," using the lack of mainstream pressure as fuel to continue honing his craft in the studio. By positioning himself as an underdog, Dremo is leaning into a narrative of perseverance—one that resonates with many fans who feel he is one of the last true "guards" of Nigerian hip-hop.

​"It is okay, I like the underdog story," he remarked, suggesting that he is more focused on the quality of his work than the immediate validation of the masses.

​Conclusion: The Future of Dremo’s Artistry

​Dremo’s viral comments have reignited a necessary debate about the state of Rap in Nigeria and how the industry measures success. Whether he remains "underrated" or finally receives the "accolades" he craves, his commitment to his sound is undeniable.

​As he continues his journey as an independent artist in 2026, the music community is watching closely. If his past work is any indication, the "underrated" rapper from the EchooRoom might just be one hit away from changing the narrative for good.