Divine Ikubor, professionally known as Rema, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and rapper who has taken the Afrobeat world by storm with his unique sound, dubbed “Afrorave.” Known for blending Afrobeat with elements of trap, pop, and EDM, Rema has established himself as one of Nigeria’s most exciting and innovative musicians. His music transcends borders, earning him a global audience and making him a trailblazer in modern Afrobeat.
Early Life and Background
Rema was born on May 1, 2000, in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. He grew up in a close-knit family with his mother and siblings, as his father passed away when he was young. Raised in a Christian household, Rema’s musical journey began in church, where he developed his vocal and performance skills.
During his teenage years, Rema displayed an entrepreneurial spirit and resilience, working hard to support his family. Despite facing challenges, he remained determined to pursue his passion for music, a decision that would eventually change his life.
Journey into Music
Rema’s foray into music began in local churches and school performances, where he honed his craft. In 2018, his freestyle over D’Prince’s song “Gucci Gang” caught the attention of Don Jazzy, CEO of Mavin Records, and D’Prince, founder of Jonzing World. Impressed by Rema’s talent, D’Prince signed him to Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records, in 2019.
Rema’s self-titled debut EP, “Rema,” released in 2019, catapulted him to stardom. The project featured the viral hit “Dumebi,” a song that quickly became a global sensation and established Rema as a rising star in Afrobeat.
Top Hit Songs
Rema’s career is marked by an impressive catalog of hit songs that showcase his creativity and versatility. Here are some of his most iconic tracks:
1. Dumebi
This breakout hit from Rema’s debut EP became an instant classic, capturing the hearts of fans across Africa and beyond with its infectious melody and youthful energy.
2. Iron Man
“Iron Man” gained international recognition when it was featured on Barack Obama’s 2019 summer playlist, highlighting Rema’s global appeal.
3. Ginger Me
“Ginger Me” is a romantic Afrobeat track that showcases Rema’s smooth vocals and knack for creating memorable love songs.
4. Soundgasm
“Soundgasm” blends Afrobeat with sensual lyrics, establishing Rema as a versatile artist unafraid to explore new themes and sounds.
5. Calm Down
A massive global hit, “Calm Down” combines catchy melodies with relatable lyrics. Its remix featuring Selena Gomez further elevated Rema’s international profile.
6. Beamer (Bad Boys)
This dancehall-inspired track highlights Rema’s ability to blend Afrobeat with international sounds.
7. Bounce
Produced by Don Jazzy, “Bounce” is a high-energy club anthem that celebrates African beauty and culture.
8. Are You There?
A socially conscious track that showcases Rema’s ability to address deeper themes in his music.
Recent Songs
Rema continues to dominate the music scene with new releases that push creative boundaries. Some of his recent tracks include:
1. Charm
“Charm” is a melodious Afrobeat track that showcases Rema’s growth as an artist.
2. Holiday
A reflective song about Rema’s journey, “Holiday” combines gratitude with infectious beats.
3. Reason You
“Reason You” is a romantic tune that explores themes of love and longing.
4. Calm Down (Remix) (ft. Selena Gomez)
The remix of “Calm Down” featuring Selena Gomez became a global hit, topping charts and earning Rema his first Billboard Hot 100 entry.
5. Dirty
This track highlights Rema’s sensual side, blending Afrobeat with R&B influences.
Albums and EPs
Rema’s discography includes groundbreaking projects that showcase his evolution as an artist:
- Rema (2019) – His debut EP introduced him to the world, featuring hits like “Dumebi” and “Iron Man.”
- Freestyle EP (2019) – A compilation of freestyles that highlight Rema’s lyrical prowess and creative versatility.
- Bad Commando (2019) – This EP solidified Rema’s status as a rising star, with tracks like “Bad Commando” and “Lady.”
- Rave & Roses (2022) – Rema’s debut album, featuring hits like “Calm Down” and “Soundgasm,” showcases his growth as a global Afrobeat artist.
Awards and Achievements
Rema’s talent and contributions to music have earned him numerous accolades and recognition:
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The Headies:
- Next Rated Artist (2019)
- Viewer’s Choice for “Dumebi” (2020)
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BET Awards:
- Nominated for Best International Act (2020, 2022)
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MTV Europe Music Awards:
- Best African Act (2022)
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African Muzik Magazine Awards (AFRIMMA):
- Best New Act (2020)
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Soundcity MVP Awards:
- Best New MVP (2020)
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Billboard Recognition:
- “Calm Down (Remix)” with Selena Gomez topped several global charts and earned Rema his first Billboard Hot 100 entry.
Rema’s global appeal and ability to break barriers have cemented his status as one of the leading voices in Afrobeat.
Collaborations
Rema has collaborated with a wide range of artists, both within Nigeria and internationally. Some of his standout collaborations include:
1. Selena Gomez
Their collaboration on the “Calm Down (Remix)” became a global hit, introducing Rema to a broader audience.
2. Fireboy DML
Rema and Fireboy collaborated on “Compromise,” a track that blends their unique styles seamlessly.
3. 6lack
“Hold Me” from Rema’s Rave & Roses album features 6lack, blending Afrobeat with R&B influences.
4. Chris Brown
Rema joined Chris Brown on the track “Time N Affection,” showcasing their mutual chemistry and versatility.
5. AJ Tracey
Their collaboration on “FYN” (Fresh Young Nigga) highlights Rema’s ability to blend Afrobeat with UK rap.
Impact and Legacy
Rema has redefined Afrobeat by infusing it with elements of trap, pop, and EDM, creating a sound that resonates with a global audience. His success has paved the way for a new generation of Nigerian artists to explore diverse musical styles and reach international markets.
Beyond his music, Rema is a cultural ambassador for Nigeria, using his platform to promote African pride and unity. His ability to connect with fans across the world while staying true to his roots makes him a role model for aspiring artists.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rema
1. What is Rema’s real name?
Rema’s full name is Divine Ikubor.
2. When did Rema start his music career?
Rema began his professional music career in 2018 after being discovered by D’Prince and signing with Jonzing World/Mavin Records.
3. What genre of music does Rema perform?
Rema’s music is a fusion of Afrobeat, trap, pop, and EDM, which he refers to as “Afrorave.”
4. What is Rema’s biggest song?
“Calm Down,” particularly the remix featuring Selena Gomez, is one of Rema’s biggest hits.
5. How many albums has Rema released?
Rema has released one studio album, Rave & Roses (2022), along with several EPs.
6. Has Rema won any international awards?
Yes, Rema has won several international awards, including the MTV Europe Music Award for Best African Act.
7. Is Rema signed to a record label?
Yes, Rema is signed to Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records.
8. Where is Rema from?
Rema is from Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.
9. How can fans connect with Rema?
Rema is active on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube, where he engages with fans and shares updates about his music.
10. What inspired Rema’s stage name?
Rema’s stage name is derived from his full name, Divine Ikubor, symbolizing a divine purpose in his music career.
Personal Life
Rema is known for being private about his personal life, focusing instead on his music and artistic expression. Despite his fame, he remains grounded and often speaks about the importance of family, resilience, and staying true to one’s values.
Conclusion
Rema’s journey from a young boy in Benin City to a global Afrobeat sensation is a testament to his talent, hard work, and vision. With his innovative sound, captivating performances, and global appeal, Rema continues to push boundaries and redefine what it means to be an Afrobeat artist in the modern era.
As Rema evolves as an artist, his legacy as a pioneer of Afrorave and a global ambassador for Nigerian music is firmly secure. His story inspires millions of fans and aspiring musicians worldwide, proving that with passion and perseverance, the sky is truly the limit.
