Divine Joshua Ikubor, known professionally as Rema, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and rapper who has become one of the most influential voices in Afrobeats and global pop music. Born on May 1, 2000, he rose from Benin City to international stardom with a distinctive blend of Afrobeats, trap, pop, and his self-coined “Afrorave” sound. His breakthrough came in 2019 with the viral hit “Dumebi,” followed by global success through the 2022 single “Calm Down,” featuring Selena Gomez, which became one of the biggest Afrobeats tracks worldwide.
Rema’s music combines energetic rhythms, melodic vocals, and relatable lyrics about love, ambition, resilience, and street life. He signed with Jonzing World (under Mavin Records) and has collaborated with major artists while pioneering a fresh wave of African music on the global stage. By his mid-20s, he achieved chart-topping success, Grammy recognition, and a dedicated fanbase, solidifying his place as a key figure in modern Afrobeats.
Rema Early Life and Background
Divine Joshua Ikubor was born on May 1, 2000, in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, into a Christian family. He hails from Igbanke in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State. His early years were shaped by both comfort and significant challenges. His father, Justice Ikubor, held a position as a politician and manager of a government-funded publishing house, providing the family with a relatively stable life initially.
Tragedy struck when Rema was around eight years old. His father passed away in 2008, followed by the death of his elder brother several years later. These losses plunged the family into financial hardship. Rema, as the only surviving son, took on responsibilities to support his mother and sisters. The family briefly relocated to Ghana, where he worked to help make ends meet. These experiences instilled resilience, maturity, and a strong drive in him. His mother played a pivotal role, emphasizing dignity, faith, and perseverance, which deeply influenced his values and music.
Rema grew up surrounded by Edo culture and Christian traditions. He participated in church activities, singing in the children’s choir and later leading a youth gospel rap group. Music became an outlet during difficult times, blending gospel roots with hip-hop influences he discovered as a teenager.
Rema Education
Rema attended Ighile Group of Schools in Edo State for his primary and secondary education. During his school years, he discovered his passion for music, singing and rapping for classmates and at school events. He honed his skills as a performer while balancing academics.
In 2022, he gained admission to the University of Lagos to study Creative Arts, partly to fulfill his mother’s wish for him to pursue higher education. However, the prolonged ASUU strike disrupted his plans. After attempting to balance part-time studies with his touring schedule, he decided to focus fully on music, a choice his mother eventually supported. His educational background reflects a balance between formal learning and self-driven artistic growth.
Rema Musical Journey and Rise to Fame
Rema’s professional career began in earnest around 2018-2019. While still in his teens, he recorded a freestyle over D’Prince’s “Gucci Gang” and posted it on Instagram. The video went viral, catching the attention of D’Prince himself, who invited him to Lagos and signed him to Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records founded by Don Jazzy’s brother.
In 2019, Rema released his self-titled debut EP Rema, which topped Apple Music charts in Nigeria. The standout track “Dumebi” became a massive hit, showcasing his smooth vocals, energetic delivery, and catchy melodies. Other early EPs like Rema Freestyle and Bad Commando followed, building his domestic fanbase.
His sound evolved into “Afrorave,” fusing Afrobeats with trap, pop, rap, and electronic elements. This innovation helped him stand out in the competitive Nigerian music scene.
Rema Career Breakthrough and Major Releases
Rema achieved global recognition in 2022 with the release of his debut studio album Rave & Roses. The album featured collaborations with artists like 6lack, Chris Brown, and AJ Tracey. The single “Calm Down” became a phenomenon, especially after the remix with Selena Gomez. It peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100, led the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart for a record 58 weeks, and amassed over a billion streams.
The album reached number 81 on the Billboard 200, marking a significant milestone for an Afrobeats project. Rema embarked on the Rave & Roses World Tour, performing to enthusiastic crowds internationally.
In 2024, he released his second studio album Heis, preceded by the single “Benin Boys” featuring Shallipopi. The project earned him his first Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Album at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards. It showcased a more mature, introspective side while retaining his signature energy.
Notable albums and EPs include:
- Rema (2019 EP)
- Rema Freestyle (2019 EP)
- Bad Commando (2019 EP)
- Rave & Roses (2022 studio album)
- Ravage (2023 EP)
- Heis (2024 studio album)
Popular songs span hits like “Dumebi,” “Calm Down,” “Soundgasm,” “Benin Boys,” “Iron Man,” and many others that have dominated charts across Africa and beyond.
Rema Achievements and Impact
Rema has received numerous awards and nominations. Highlights include winning the Headies Next Rated award, Soundcity MVP Best New Artist, and the MTV Video Music Award for Best Afrobeats Video for “Calm Down.” He has also earned Billboard Music Awards and multiple nominations at major ceremonies.
His music has appeared in soundtracks like FIFA 21, and he has secured brand partnerships while inspiring a new generation of African artists. As one of the youngest Afrobeats stars to achieve such global reach, Rema has helped elevate the genre’s profile worldwide. His success demonstrates the power of streaming and social media in modern music careers.
Rema Personal Life
Rema maintains a relatively private personal life despite his fame. He comes from a close-knit family and has spoken openly about the influence of his mother and the losses they endured. He credits his faith and family values for keeping him grounded.
In relationships, he has mentioned having a few girlfriends, with his longest lasting about two and a half years. As of recent interviews, he remains single but expresses a desire for marriage and children in the future, viewing family as central to his legacy.
He has shown interest in fashion, appearing at events like Lagos Fashion Week, and continues to draw inspiration from his roots in Benin City.
Rema Influence on Afrobeats and Global Music
Rema has played a key role in popularizing Afrobeats beyond Africa. His “Afrorave” style has influenced emerging artists, blending traditional elements with contemporary sounds. Collaborations with international stars like Selena Gomez and appearances on global platforms have introduced millions to Nigerian music.
He uses his platform to address social issues, such as cutting his dreadlocks in protest during the #EndSARS movement, showing awareness of his country’s challenges.
Rema Philanthropy and Future Plans
While specific large-scale philanthropic details are not extensively publicized, Rema has expressed a commitment to giving back to his community and supporting youth. His music often carries messages of hope and resilience drawn from personal experiences. Looking ahead, he aims to expand his label ambitions, continue evolving his sound, and build a lasting legacy in music and beyond.
Conclusion
Rema’s journey from the streets of Benin City to global stages exemplifies talent, determination, and cultural pride. Through personal hardships and rapid success, he has remained authentic, blending innovation with roots. As Afrobeats continues to dominate worldwide, Rema stands as a dynamic ambassador, inspiring fans with his energy, vulnerability, and forward-looking vision. His story is still unfolding, promising more milestones in the years to come.
FAQs
What is Rema’s real name and date of birth?
Rema’s real name is Divine Joshua Ikubor. He was born on May 1, 2000.
Where is Rema from?
He was born and raised in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.
What genre of music does Rema perform?
Rema performs Afrobeats, Afro-rave, trap, pop rap, and related styles.
What is Rema’s biggest hit song?
“Calm Down,” especially the remix with Selena Gomez, is his most successful track globally.
Has Rema won a Grammy?
He received a nomination for Best Global Music Album for Heis at the 67th Grammy Awards.
Is Rema married?
As of the latest available information, Rema is not married and keeps his romantic life private.
What is Rema’s net worth?
Estimates vary, but his rapid success, tours, streams, and endorsements place him among the top-earning young Afrobeats artists (specific figures fluctuate and are not officially confirmed here)