Divine Ikubor, born on May 1, 2000, in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, is widely recognized by his stage name, Rema. He is a prominent Nigerian singer, rapper, and songwriter who has significantly impacted the global music scene with his distinctive sound and style. Rema’s journey in music began during his secondary school days at Ighile Group of Schools, where he developed a passion for singing and rapping. His early exposure to music was shaped by his performances in churches alongside his collaborator, Alpha P.
Rema’s rise to fame commenced in 2018 when he posted a viral freestyle on Instagram to D’Prince’s song “Gucci Gang.” This caught the attention of D’Prince, who promptly flew him to Lagos and offered him a record deal with Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records owned by the renowned music executive and producer, Don Jazzy. In 2019, Rema officially launched his professional music career with the release of his debut single, “Dumebi.” The song’s infectious rhythm and catchy lyrics quickly captured the hearts of many, establishing Rema as a rising star in the Afrobeats genre.
Following the success of “Dumebi,” Rema released his self-titled debut EP, “Rema,” in 2019. This project topped Apple Music’s Nigerian charts and featured the breakout song “Dumebi,” whose music video, released on May 21, 2019, garnered millions of views on YouTube. The same year, another popular song from the EP was featured on former United States President Barack Obama’s annual summer playlist, further elevating Rema’s international profile.
Rema’s debut studio album, “Rave & Roses,” released in 2022, marked a significant milestone in his career. The album debuted at number 81 on the Billboard 200 and included the hit single “Calm Down.” The song gained international acclaim, especially after its remix featuring Selena Gomez, which peaked at number three on the US Billboard Hot 100. The remix spent a record-breaking 58 weeks at number one on the US Billboard Afrobeats Songs chart, cementing Rema’s status as a global music sensation. The success of “Calm Down” led to numerous accolades, including the MTV Video Music Award for Best Afrobeats Video and the Billboard Music Award for Top Afrobeats Song.
In 2023, Rema continued his musical journey with the release of his fourth commercial EP, “Ravage,” followed by his second studio album, “Heis,” in 2024. The lead single from “Heis,” titled “Benin Boys,” featured Shallipopi and showcased Rema’s continued evolution as an artist. Throughout his career, Rema has been known for his innovative sound, which he describes as “Afrorave,” blending Afrobeats with Arabian and Indian influences. This unique style has garnered him a dedicated fanbase known as Ravers.
Beyond his musical achievements, Rema has also made significant personal strides. Despite facing challenges, including the loss of his father and elder brother, he was raised by his mother, who played a crucial role in his life. Rema’s music often reflects his experiences and the resilience he has shown in overcoming adversity.
Rema’s impact on the global music scene has been widely recognized, with publications like Rolling Stone and The Guardian Nigeria praising his contributions to the rise of Afrobeats. His influence extends beyond music, as he has become an emblem of African musical talent and innovation on the international stage. With a promising career ahead, Rema continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide with his exceptional artistry and passion for music.