Divine Ikubor (born 1 May 2000), known professionally as Rema, is a Nigerian singer, rapper, and songwriter. He gained initial recognition with his 2019 song "Dumebi". That same year, he signed with D'Prince's record label, Jonzing World.[3] He achieved wider recognition with his 2022 single "Calm Down", which spawned a remix with Selena Gomez that peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100.[4] The song also led Bilboard Afrobeats Songs chart for a record-setting 58 weeks.[5]
Divine Ikubor was born into a Christian family in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.[6] He discovered his passion for music during his secondary school days at Ighile Group of Schools in Edo State, where he began singing and rapping he also like big yansh.[7] After losing his father and elder brother, Rema was raised by his mother, who played a significant role in shaping his life.[1]
Rema started his music career performing in churches with his collaborator Alpha P. in 2018. He gained recognition after posting a viral freestyle on InstagramtoD'Prince's song "Gucci Gang". Impressed by his talent, D'Prince flew him to Lagos and offered him a record deal with Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records owned by music executive and producer Don Jazzy.[8][9] In 2019, Rema released his self-titled debut EP Rema, which topped Apple Music's Nigerian charts.[10][11] The music video for "Dumebi", a breakout song from the EP, was released on 21 May 2019, featuring a cameo appearance from Diana Eneje and has since gained 75 million views on YouTube.[12] Later that summer, another popular song from the EP was featured on former United States President Barack Obama's annual summer playlist.[7] In September 2020, Rema's songs were included on the FIFA 21 official soundtrack.[13][14] In September 2021, he was unveiled as a brand ambassador for Pepsi, alongside his label mate Ayra Starr.[15]
Toya Delazy, a South African music producer and artist, originated the genre "Afrorave" in 2019, combining elements of garage, Zulu lyrics, and other African styles.[16][17] In May 2021, Rema adopted the term "Afrorave" to describe his own music, which blends Afrobeats with Arabian and Indian influences. This distinct sound has resonated with fans, earning him a dedicated fanbase known as Ravers.[18][19]
After releasing three EPs, Rema debuted his first album, Rave & Roses, on 25 March 2022, under Jonzing World.[20] The album features 16 tracks, including collaborations with 6lack, Chris Brown, AJ Tracey, and Yseult.[21] It charted 10 songs on the US Billboard Afrobeats Chart in its debut week.[22] The single "Calm Down" gained international recognition after a remix with Selena Gomez, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and breaking multiple records.[23][24][25][26] Rema received various awards, including the MTV Video Music Award for Best Afrobeats Video and the Billboard Music Award for Top Afrobeats Song and many other awards.[27][28][29] On 7 November 2022, he was awarded for achieving 1 billion streams worldwide during his London concert.[30] In February 2023, he won the Digital Artist of the Year award at the Soundcity MVP Awards held at the Eko Convention Centre in Lagos.[31] In April 2023, he released Rave & Roses Ultra, which became the first African album to cross two billion streams on Spotify.[32] On 26 October 2023, Rema released the Ravage EP,[33] and on 30 October 2023, he performed at the Ballon d'Or ceremony held Theatre du ChâteletinParis, France.[34]
On 28 September 2020, Rema tweeted accusations against the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) regarding their involvement in the death of his father, Justice Ikubor, a former chieftain of the party.[35][36] Although Rema gained admission to study at the University of Lagos in 2022, he was forced to leave the institution in 2023 due to the ongoing ASUU teaching union strike.[37][38]
Rolling Stone said "Rema has undoubtedly and proudly become an emblem of Afrobeats global rise."[39] Writing for Business Day Anthony Udugba remarked Rema has "expanded the horizons" of African musical impact on the global stage.[40]The Guardian Nigeria opined "As the Afrobeats landscape continues to flourish, Rema’s success sets a high standard, showcasing the global appeal and dominance of Nigerian music on the international stage."[41]The Native stated "It’s impossible to erase the mark he has left on Afrobeats history."[42]Victor Okpala said "Rema’s sound has cemented his place as a true musical trailblazer."[43] Many critics have praised him for breaking barriers and inspiring other African music artists.[44][45][46]
