Benin Boys

"Benin Boys" (stylized in all caps) is a song by Nigerian singers Rema and Shallipopi, released by Mavin Records and Jonzing World on 20 June 2024. The song's production is credited to Rema and Producer X. This release marks the first collaboration between Rema and Shallipopi, and represents a work in the Afrobeats genre.

Background
Rema and Shallipopi collaborated on the song in 2024, following a chance meeting at a music festival in Lagos in 2023, where they initially discussed the idea of working together on a project that would celebrate their shared cultural heritage. On 30 January 2024, both artists shared a studio clip on social media, generating interest and anticipation among their fans, who were eager to hear the outcome of their collaboration. The song, produced by Producer X with Rema serving as co-producer, is a musical celebration of Benin City culture, showcasing pride in their roots and their desire to share their cultural heritage with a wider audience. In an interview, Rema stated that his aim was to create a song that would not only showcase his cultural pride but also connect with his audience on a deeper level, fostering a sense of community and shared identity among listeners.

Composition
The song features a prominent afrobeats rhythm, accompanied by a range of percussion instruments, a driving bassline, and keyboard synths. The chord progression is centered around C minor and G7, creating a harmonic foundation that supports the song's energetic and celebratory feel. Lyrically, the song is an ode to pride and wealth, with Rema and Shallipopi delivering verses that celebrate their cultural heritage and affluence. The lyrics are written in a style that is both boastful and aspirational, with the artists expressing their pride in their roots and their achievements. The song's themes of pride, wealth, and cultural celebration are woven throughout the lyrics, creating a narrative that is both personal and universal.

Critical reception
Oumou Fofana, a music critic for BET, described the song as "a dynamic exchange of verses over heavy drums and electrifying background strings, showcasing Rema and Shallipopi's lyrical prowess and musical chemistry." Fofana's assessment highlights the track's energetic and infectious beat, which combines traditional drum patterns with modern string arrangements, creating a unique sound that blends cultural heritage with contemporary style.

Music video
A music video for the song was released on 21 June 2024. The video, directed by Director K, features the two artists in distinct settings, with Rema perched on an airplane flap and Shallipopi posing alongside a car. The visuals also incorporate elements of Benin culture, including the prominent display of the Benin Ancestral Bronzes, which hold significant cultural and historical importance. Additionally, the video features imagery of bats, which symbolize the Benin symbol and add to the overall cultural themes present throughout the video. Through the inclusion of these cultural references, the music video aims to celebrate and showcase Benin heritage, further reinforcing the song's themes of pride and cultural connection.

Credits and personnel

 * Divine Ikubor – songwriting, composition
 * Crown Uzama – songwriting, composition
 * Agada Prince Oyada – songwriting, composition, production
 * Divine Ikubor – co-production
 * George Momoh – mastering