Dremo – Man2Man (2026): A Bold, Unfiltered Afrobeats Diss Track That Shakes Up the Nigerian Music Scene
On January 9, 2026, DMW rapper Dremo (Aboriomoh Femi Raymond) dropped “Man2Man”, a raw and confrontational freestyle that’s already causing waves in the Nigerian music industry.
Released as a standalone single via Codename/Dvpper Digital, this track is Dremo’s no-holds-barred address to peers, calling out perceived slights and industry hypocrisies with sharp lyrics and unapologetic delivery.
“Man2Man” is more than a song—it’s a declaration, blending Afrobeats production with hard-hitting rap bars that name-drop and diss artists like BNXN (formerly Buju), Vector, and others.
In a year starting with motivational anthems, Dremo’s track stands out for its honesty and controversy, sparking debates on loyalty, beef, and authenticity.
This comprehensive review explores every aspect: background, production, lyrics, themes, performances, cultural impact, reception, and why “Man2Man” could redefine rap beef in 2026.
As Dremo continues his journey away from DMW, “Man2Man” reaffirms his status as a fearless lyricist unafraid to speak his truth.
Background and Release Context
Dremo, revealed that he has parted ways with DMW, signed to Davido’s DMW since 2016, has built a reputation as a skilled rapper with mixtapes like Codename (2018) and hits like “F.J” and “Ringer.”
His 2025 was low-key, focusing on features and freestyles, but “Man2Man” marks a fiery return, released just days into 2026.
The track stems from ongoing industry tensions. Dremo’s tweets and interviews in late 2025 hinted at frustrations with peers, and “Man2Man” directly addresses them.
Produced by The Kazez, mixed by Exzelofficial, it dropped with an official visualizer by Crashcami for Zone7 on YouTube, quickly gaining traction.
Timing: Early January, when resolutions and reflections dominate – Dremo’s “man to man” call-outs fit the “new year, new energy” vibe.
Context: Nigerian rap beefs are common (e.g., M.I vs. Vector), but Dremo’s targets (BNXN, Vector) add fresh drama.
Dremo’s evolution from “OMG” freestyles to this bold statement shows growth – “Man2Man” is his stand for respect.
Production and Sound Design
“Man2Man” features gritty Afrobeats production by The Kazez – mid-tempo beat (~100 BPM), heavy basslines, trap hi-hats, subtle synths creating tension.
Sound design emphasizes confrontation – sparse instrumentation in verses for lyric focus, building to chorus drops.
Mixing by Exzelofficial keeps Dremo’s voice clear, aggressive.
Compared to Dremo’s “East to West” (2021), this is rawer, less melodic – rap-forward.
Detailed elements: Intro ad-libs set confrontational tone, beat switch adds drama.
Score: 8.8/10 – Tense, fitting for diss.
Lyrics and Thematic Breakdown
“Man2Man” lyrics are direct, confrontational – addressing issues man to man.
Full lyrics:
Intro: (Hol’am)
Hook: Brother man (Hmm) If we get issues, make we iron am (Hmm) Whether na artiste to artiste or man to man (Hmm) You fit no like my face, you fit no like my song really But V.E.C, se mo pe e se mi cause egbon mi ni yin
Verse 1: Baddo, been trying to get a verse from you…
Themes: Honesty, industry beef, respect, hypocrisy.
Line-by-line: Calls out BNXN for hostility, Vector for podcast shade.
Cultural: Naija “man to man” ethos – direct confrontation in rap.
Vocal Performance and Delivery
Dremo’s delivery intense, passionate – rap flow sharp, ad-libs add emphasis.
Voice confident – no auto-tune overkill, raw emotion.
Performance: 9/10 – Convincing, fiery.
Visuals and Aesthetic
Official visualizer (Crashcami) simple – Dremo in studio, lyrics overlay, dramatic lighting.
Cover art bold – Dremo in confrontational pose.
Aesthetic: Raw, unfiltered – beef theme visual.
Cultural Impact and Reception
Early: Viral – BNXN responses, fan debates.
Reception: “Dremo fearless,” “beef season.”
Impact: Reignites rap authenticity discussions.
Comparison to Previous Work
Dremo’s diss history like “Ringer” – “Man2Man” more personal.
Similar to Vector’s “Diss to M.I.”
Strengths, Weaknesses, and Broader Implications
Strengths: Honesty, flow, relevance.
Weaknesses: Could escalate beef unnecessarily.
Implications: Encourages open industry dialogue.
Potential Legacy and Final Verdict
“Man2Man” could spark 2026 beef era – Dremo’s bold statement.
Verdict: 9/10. Raw, impactful – essential listen!
ALSO READ: Afrobeats Evolution: A Deep Dive into the History and Evolution of the Afrobeats Genre
