Rema Biography: From Benin City to Global Afrobeats Star

Divine Ikubor, known professionally as Rema, born on May 1, 2000, in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and rapper. Renowned for pioneering the “Afrorave” subgenre, blending Afrobeats with Arabian, Indian, and trap influences, Rema has emerged as a leading voice in African music.

As of 2025, he has released two studio albums, four EPs, and multiple chart-topping singles, achieving global recognition.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Raised in a Christian family, Rema developed an early passion for music, singing and rapping in church and at Ighile Group of Schools. After losing his father, Justice Ikubor, a former Peoples Democratic Party chieftain, in 2008, and his elder brother later, Rema became the primary provider for his mother and two sisters. At 17, he briefly moved to Ghana, working odd jobs, including at a beach, to support his family. Upon returning to Nigeria in 2017, he gifted his mother a 2010 Lexus RX 350, symbolizing his early determination.

Rise to Stardom

Rema’s breakthrough came in 2018 when he posted a viral freestyle to D’Prince’s “Gucci Gang” on Instagram, catching the attention of D’Prince. In 2019, he signed with Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records, and released his debut EP, Rema. The project featured “Dumebi,” which topped Apple Music Nigeria charts and amassed 85 million YouTube views, and “Iron Man,” featured on Barack Obama’s 2019 summer playlist. These tracks established Rema as a rising star.

Artistic Evolution

Rema’s music, characterized as Afrorave, reflects his innovative blend of genres. His key releases include:

2019 – Rema (EP): Introduced his signature sound with hits like “Dumebi” and “Iron Man.”
2019 – Freestyle EP and Bad Commando: Showcased his versatility with trap and dancehall influences.
2022 – Rave & Roses: His debut album, peaking at number 81 on the Billboard 200, featured collaborations with 6lack, Chris Brown, and AJ Tracey. The single “Calm Down,” remixed with Selena Gomez, reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and led the Billboard Afrobeats Songs chart for 58 weeks.
2023 – Ravage (EP): Explored darker, introspective themes.
2024 – Heis: His second album, earning a Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Album in 2025, supported by “Benin Boys” with Shallipopi.
2025 – Recent Singles: “Baby (Is It a Crime),” sampling Sade, and “Bout U” continue his genre-blending approach.

Discography

Below is a table summarizing Rema’s studio albums and EPs:

Title	Release Date	Type	Notable Tracks
Rema	March 22, 2019	EP	“Dumebi,” “Iron Man”
Freestyle EP	July 1, 2019	EP	“Spiderman,” “Trap Out the Sub”
Bad Commando	October 4, 2019	EP	“Bad Commando,” “Rewind”
Rave & Roses	March 25, 2022	Album	“Calm Down,” “Soundgasm”
Ravage	October 27, 2023	EP	“Trouble Maker,” “Don’t Leave”
Heis	July 11, 2024	Album	“Benin Boys,” “Hehehe”

Additionally, Rema contributed “Wake Up” and “Pantera” to the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack (2022).

Tours and Performances

Rema’s live performances are known for their high energy and connection with his fanbase, dubbed Ravers. Key performances include:

Rave & Roses World Tour (2022–2023): Covered Africa, Europe, and North America, showcasing his global appeal.
Ballon d’Or Ceremony (2023): Performed at the prestigious football awards in Paris.
Festival Appearances: Regular headliner at major African and international music festivals.

Awards and Achievements

Rema’s accolades include:

2019 Headies Next Rated: Recognized as Nigeria’s most promising new act.
2020 Soundcity MVP Best New Artist: Celebrated his rapid rise.
MTV Video Music Award for Best Afrobeats Video: For “Calm Down” remix with Selena Gomez.
Billboard Music Award for Top Afrobeats Song: For “Calm Down.”
2025 Grammy Nomination: Best Global Music Album for Heis.
First African album (Rave & Roses Ultra) to surpass two billion Spotify streams.

In 2021, he became a Pepsi ambassador alongside Ayra Starr.

Personal Life and Philanthropy

Rema, a Manchester United fan, remains single, prioritizing his career over relationships. He studied at Edo College and gained admission to the University of Lagos in 2023. His net worth is estimated at $1–3 million, earned through music sales, streaming royalties, tours, and endorsements. Known for his eclectic fashion and introspective lyrics, Rema maintains a private personal life despite media interest.

While specific philanthropic efforts are less documented, Rema has expressed a commitment to uplifting his community in Benin City, often referencing his roots in interviews. His music frequently addresses themes of resilience and ambition, inspiring young Africans.

Rema’s Influence on Popular Culture

Rema’s creation of Afrorave has redefined Afrobeats, influencing a new generation of artists. His global collaborations, from Selena Gomez to Chris Brown, have bridged African music with Western audiences. With millions of followers on Instagram and TikTok, he engages directly with Ravers, driving trends in music and fashion. His music videos, like “Dumebi,” are visually striking, often featuring Nigerian cultural elements.

Rema’s Impact on the Music Industry

Rema’s rise has contributed to Afrobeats’ global dominance, with “Calm Down” becoming a landmark track for African music on international charts. His signing with Jonzing World and Mavin Records highlighted the potential of young African talent, inspiring labels to invest in emerging artists. By blending genres, Rema has expanded the creative boundaries of Afrobeats, making it more versatile and accessible.

Rema’s Style and Fashion Influence

Rema’s fashion blends streetwear with high-end designs, often incorporating vibrant colors and African-inspired patterns. His signature bucket hats, oversized jackets, and bold accessories have made him a trendsetter. Appearances at events like the Ballon d’Or showcase his ability to merge global and African aesthetics, influencing youth fashion across Nigeria and beyond.

Rema’s Legacy: A Trailblazer in African Music

As one of Africa’s best-selling artists, Rema’s legacy is rooted in his innovation and global impact. With over two billion Spotify streams and a Grammy nomination, he has proven African music’s universal appeal. His journey from a teenage runaway to a global star reflects resilience and creativity, positioning him as an enduring figure in music.

Rema’s Social Media and Online Presence

Rema maintains an active online presence, engaging with fans through music updates and personal insights. Follow him on:

Platform	Handle/URL
Instagram	@heisrema
Twitter	@heisrema
YouTube	Rema
Official Website	www.heisrema.com

Conclusion

Rema’s journey from Benin City to global stardom is a testament to talent, perseverance, and innovation. With chart-topping hits, genre-defining music, and a growing list of accolades, he continues to shape the future of Afrobeats. As a cultural ambassador and musical pioneer, Rema’s influence will resonate for years to come.