Nigerian Afrobeats star Rema has opened up about his pre-performance routine, admitting that he drinks, smokes, and prays before stepping on stage.
Speaking in an interview with Dazed on the sidelines of Milan Fashion Week, where he walked the runway for Diesel, the singer shared insights into how he prepares mentally and physically for his shows.
According to him, his ritual includes taking “a little tequila, a little cigarette,” saying a prayer, and checking in with his team to ensure everything is set for a seamless performance.
“A little tequila, a little cigarette, pray, tap in with the team, and make sure everything is on cue,” he said when asked about his pre-show habits.
The artist noted that performing on stage is far more demanding than walking the runway, explaining that live performances require intense breath control and sustained energy to keep the audience engaged.
“Performing has a lot to do with your breathwork, and you have to keep the crowd going,” he added.
On his current musical influences, Rema disclosed that he has been listening to a lot of Sudanese cultural live music.
He also described smoking cigarettes as his “biggest vice.”
