It’s not every day that two international superstars join forces to create a musical masterpiece, but that’s precisely what happened when Rema and Selena Gomez collaborated on their hit song, “Calm Down.”
This catchy, dance-inducing track quickly climbed the charts and became a global sensation. Let’s delve into the captivating story behind the making of this incredible tune.
The Genesis of "Calm Down":
“Calm Down” was born from a chance encounter between Nigerian singer-songwriter Rema and American pop princess Selena Gomez. The two artists first met at a charity event in Los Angeles, where they discovered their shared love for music and their complementary artistic styles. This spark ignited their desire to create something unique together, ultimately leading to the birth of “Calm Down.”
The Power of Collaboration:
The creative process behind “Calm Down” was a true testament to the power of collaboration. Rema and Selena Gomez spent countless hours in the studio, melding their diverse musical influences into a harmonious blend of Afrobeat and pop. The resulting track showcases Rema’s energetic vocals and infectious beats, paired with Selena’s sultry voice and polished pop sensibilities.
Social Media and "Calm Down":
The anticipation for “Calm Down” was fueled by an effective social media strategy. Both Rema and Selena Gomez teased their fans with behind-the-scenes snippets and images from the studio, generating massive buzz online. The artists’ millions of followers eagerly awaited the release, and when the song finally dropped, it was met with overwhelming enthusiasm and praise.
The Impact of "Calm Down":
“Calm Down” has had a significant impact on both artists’ careers, propelling them to new heights of stardom. The song has garnered numerous awards and topped charts worldwide, solidifying its status as a bonafide hit. The music video, which features the duo dancing in a vibrant, colorful setting, has amassed millions of views on YouTube, further contributing to the song’s success.
The Legacy of "Calm Down":
The story behind “Calm Down” is a testament to the magic that can happen when two talented artists from different backgrounds come together with a shared vision. The collaboration between Rema and Selena Gomez has left an indelible mark on the global music landscape and serves as an inspiration for aspiring musicians worldwide. As “Calm Down” continues to dominate the airwaves, one thing is for certain – this unforgettable hit will be remembered for years to come.
The journey of “Calm Down” from a chance encounter to a chart-topping hit is a fascinating tale that highlights the power of collaboration and the universal language of music. The undeniable chemistry between Rema and Selena Gomez has created a timeless anthem that will be enjoyed by fans for generations.
FAQ
What makes “Calm Down” a significant song in the Afrobeats genre?
“Calm Down” has become the highest-charting hit from an Afrobeats lead artist in Billboard Hot 100 history, marking a significant milestone for the genre. Its slow and steady rise to success showcases the growing global appeal of Afrobeats.
How did “Calm Down” achieve its slow-burn success?
The song’s gradual growth can be attributed to its universal appeal, not being tied to a specific cultural moment, and the strategic release of the Selena Gomez remix, which arrived at the right time to boost its popularity. Additionally, its cross-platform transition, from TikTok to major streaming platforms and U.S. pop radio, played a key role in its long-term success.
What role did Selena Gomez play in the success of “Calm Down”?
Selena Gomez’s remix of “Calm Down” significantly increased the song’s global visibility and appeal, especially on formats like Rhythmic Airplay and Pop Airplay where she has had success in the past. Her familiar voice and global fanbase helped introduce Rema’s sound to a wider audience, sustaining the song’s success.
Did “Calm Down” benefit from radio play?
Yes, radio play has been a crucial factor in the song’s late-chart life. Although it took a while for radio to embrace “Calm Down,” it eventually reached No. 2 on the Billboard Radio Songs chart, supporting its sustained popularity.
Is “Calm Down” the biggest Afrobeats crossover hit?
While Afrobeats has seen major crossover hits by artists like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Tems, “Calm Down” has surpassed them to become the biggest Stateside Afrobeats hit of all time, outside of Wizkid’s appearance on Drake’s “One Dance.”
How did the collaboration between Rema and Selena Gomez come about?
The collaboration was strategic, aiming to blend Rema’s fresh Afro-rave sound with Selena Gomez’s pop sensibilities. Their partnership was not just about adding a familiar voice to the track but also about ensuring that the remix did not detract from the original song’s musical qualities.
Could “Calm Down” become the first No. 1 from an Afrobeats lead artist on the Hot 100?
While facing tough competition on the charts, Billboard staff expressed optimism about “Calm Down” potentially reaching No. 1 on the Hot 100. Its continued growth and the possibility of another remix or cultural boost could help it achieve this milestone.
“Calm Down” by Rema and Selena Gomez stands as a testament to the global appeal of Afrobeats and the power of strategic collaborations in reaching new audiences and achieving chart success.