Early Life and Background
Divine Ikubor, popularly known by his stage name Rema, was born on May 1, 2000, in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Growing up in a music-loving environment, Rema was exposed to various genres, including Afrobeats, trap, and pop, which would eventually shape his musical style. He developed an early interest in music, participating in church choirs and school performances, where his passion for singing and songwriting grew. His diverse musical influences helped him fuse traditional Nigerian sounds with contemporary global music styles.
Rema’s music journey began when he started making music in his teens, drawing inspiration from artists like Lil Wayne, Future, and Wizkid, blending African rhythms with Western trap and hip-hop styles. His distinct sound, which he later coined as “Afrorave”, incorporates elements of Afrobeats, Fuji, pop, and trap, creating a unique style that resonates with both local and global audiences.
Musical Career
Breakthrough (2018-2019)
Rema’s rise to prominence began in 2018 when he posted his freestyles on social media, catching the attention of Jonzing World, a Nigerian record label founded by artist D’Prince. In 2019, he released his breakout single “Dumebi”, which quickly became a massive hit. The song, characterized by its catchy beats and playful lyrics, was embraced across Nigeria and internationally, positioning Rema as one of the most exciting new talents in Afrobeats. His other hit singles from this period include “Iron Man” and “Why”.
Rema’s success with “Dumebi” led to a significant partnership with Mavin Records, further expanding his reach. The song’s success across various platforms solidified Rema’s status as a leading voice in the Afrobeats genre.
International Recognition and Global Appeal (2020-2022)
Rema’s global presence continued to grow as he earned recognition from major international music platforms and media outlets. In 2020, he performed on prominent platforms like Apple Music’s Up Next series, showcasing his versatility and cross-genre appeal.
In 2022, Rema achieved international fame with his smash hit “Calm Down”. The song’s catchy chorus and unique blend of Afrobeats with pop and trap elements made it a global anthem, earning him a spot in the international music spotlight. In 2023, the track received an even bigger boost with the release of the Selena Gomez-featured remix, which made waves on international charts. “Calm Down” peaked at number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, a monumental achievement for an African artist. It also topped the Billboard Afrobeats Songs chart for a record 58 weeks.
The massive success of “Calm Down” played a pivotal role in establishing Rema as one of the most significant Afrobeats stars globally.
HEIS (2023-Present)
In 2023, Rema released his debut studio album, “HEIS”, further cementing his position as a key player in Afrobeats and global music. The album showcases his versatility as an artist, blending genres such as trap, house, pop, and traditional West African sounds. Songs like “Benin Boys”, featuring Shallipopi, and “Holiday” received wide acclaim for their cross-cultural appeal.
The album’s success was boosted by global collaborations, and it signaled Rema’s growing influence in the music industry. Notably, Rema’s “Afrorave” genre a fusion of Afrobeats, rave, and trap, has been heralded as one of the most exciting developments in modern African music.
Notable Performances and Achievements
Rema has not only excelled in the studio but also on stage, captivating audiences with his dynamic performances. He made a memorable appearance at the Louis Vuitton Spring 2025 Men’s Collection show in Paris, where he debuted Pharrell Williams’ collection, further highlighting his influence beyond music into the fashion industry. This event also symbolized his status as a cultural icon.
He has performed at major music festivals and events, including Coachella, O2 Arena, and Barclays Center, gaining attention from both African and international fans.
Rema’s achievements include multiple award nominations and wins, including:
- Headies Awards: Best Male Artiste, Best Afrobeat Song
- BET Awards: Best International Act
- MOBO Awards: Best African Act
- Apple Music Up Next Series (2020)
- Billboard Hot 100 Top 10 Hits (with “Calm Down” reaching number 3)
Rema’s consistent chart performance, international recognition, and groundbreaking collaborations have made him one of the foremost artists in contemporary Afrobeats.
Artistry and Influence
Rema is recognized for his genre-blending artistry, fusing Afrobeats with influences from trap, pop, and R&B, creating a sound that appeals to a broad audience. His ability to blend indigenous Nigerian sounds with modern global genres has made him one of the most innovative artists of his generation.
He has also introduced Afrorave, a new subgenre that combines rave-like beats with Afrobeats influences, creating a fresh and distinct sound that connects deeply with youth culture worldwide.
Rema’s lyrics often reflect his cultural background, drawing from his roots in Benin City and the wider Nigerian experience. His use of Pidgin, Bini, Yoruba, and English in his songs gives his music an authentic feel, making it accessible to both local and international listeners.
Personal Life
Despite his immense popularity, Rema is known for keeping his personal life relatively private. However, he has publicly expressed his gratitude for his fans, mentors, and the support of his family. As a young, rising star, he has already become an influential figure in not just the music industry but also in fashion and culture.
He is passionate about representing African culture through his music and his bold approach to combining African sounds with global music trends has garnered him significant attention worldwide. His fashion choices, which often reflect his unique personal style, have also attracted attention, further solidifying his status as a global trendsetter.
Online Presence
Discography
- “Dumebi” (2019)
- “Iron Man” (2019)
- “Calm Down” (2022)
- “HEIS” (2023)
Rema continues to be one of the leading stars in the global music scene, representing Nigerian culture and Afrobeats music to the world. With a growing international fanbase, his innovative approach to music and his commitment to pushing boundaries make him one of the most promising talents in the music industry.
