I smoke, pray before going on stage – Rema

Nigerian Afrobeats artiste, Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, has disclosed details about what he does before stepping on stage to perform.

Speaking in an interview with Dazed on the sidelines of the Milan Fashion Week, where he walked the runway for Diesel, the singer said he drinks alcohol, smokes cigarettes and prays before performing.

“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 routine.

Rema added that he also conducts a sound check with his team to ensure everything is in place for a smooth performance.

He noted that performing is more stressful than walking the runway.

“Performing has a lot to do with your breathwork and you have to keep the crowd going,” he explained.

On the type of music currently inspiring him, Rema said, “I have been listening to a lot of Sudanese cultural live music.”

He, however, admitted that smoking cigarettes remains his “biggest vice.”