Rema: The Life and Career of Divine Ikubor

Rema: The Life and Career of Divine Ikubor

Rema real name Divine Ikubor well Divine Ikubor well mononymously known as Rema, was born on May 1, 2000, in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. He is an influential singer, songwriter, and rapper whose music has made significant waves both locally and internationally. Rema: The Life and Career of Divine Ikubor, his career skyrocketed with his 2019 hit “Dumebi,” which became a cultural phenomenon and showcased his unique sound that blends Afrobeats with various global influences. Rema Website is Heisrema.com

Early Life

Rema was raised in a Christian household in Edo State. His passion for music ignited during his secondary school days at Ighile Group of Schools, where he began singing and rapping. After facing the tragic loss of his father and elder brother, he was primarily raised by his mother, who played a pivotal role in his life and career development.

Scroll Some Of Rema Gallery In Musicbox

Career Beginnings: 2019–2021

Rema’s music journey began in 2019 when he performed in churches alongside collaborator Alpha P. His breakthrough came when he posted a viral freestyle on Instagram to D’Prince’s track “Gucci Gang.” Recognizing his talent, D’Prince brought him to Lagos and signed him to Jonzing World, a subsidiary of the renowned Mavin Records, led by Don Jazzy.

In 2019, Rema released his self-titled debut EP, which rapidly climbed the charts on Apple Music in Nigeria. The music video for “Dumebi,” released on May 21, 2019, became a major hit, amassing over 75 million views on YouTube. Notably, the song caught the attention of former U.S. President Barack Obama, who included it in his annual summer playlist.

Rema’s music style evolved into what he termed “Afrorave,” a genre that marries Afrobeats with elements from various musical traditions, including Arabian and Indian influences. This innovative sound earned him a dedicated fan base, known as Ravers. Also Play Benin Boys by Rema (ft-shallipopi)

Breakthrough and Global Recognition: 2022–2023

Rema achieved international acclaim with his 2022 single “Calm Down,” which was part of his debut studio album, Rave & Roses. The song not only peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 after a remix featuring Selena Gomez but also led the Billboard Afrobeats Songs chart for an unprecedented 58 weeks. The album itself debuted at number 81 on the Billboard 200 and included collaborations with artists like 6lack, Chris Brown, and AJ Tracey.

In recognition of his achievements, Rema has received numerous awards, including the MTV Video Music Award for Best Afrobeats Video and the Billboard Music Award for Top Afrobeats Song. He celebrated reaching one billion streams worldwide at a concert in London in November 2022 and was awarded Digital Artist of the Year at the Soundcity MVP Awards in February 2023. His subsequent release, Rave & Roses Ultra, made history as the first African album to surpass two billion streams on Spotify.

On October 26, 2023, Rema released his fourth commercial EP, Ravage, and made a notable appearance at the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris shortly after.

Album: HEIS

On July 11, 2024, Rema launched his second studio album, HEIS, which features collaborations with prominent Nigerian artists such as ODUMODUBLVCK and Shallipopi. The album consists of 11 tracks and reflects his continued evolution as an artist.

Personal Life

Rema’s personal life has been marked by both challenges and accomplishments. In September 2020, he publicly accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of involvement in his father’s death, who was a former chieftain of the party. Though Rema gained admission to study at the University of Lagos in 2022, he had to leave due to the prolonged ASUU teaching union strike in 2023.

Impact on Afrobeats

Rema: The Life and Career of Divine Ikubor influence on the global music scene is undeniable. As noted by Rolling Stone, he represents the “proud emblem” of Afrobeats’ rise worldwide. His innovative sound and ability to break through barriers have inspired many emerging African artists. Critics from various platforms have praised his contributions, with The Guardian Nigeria highlighting his role in showcasing the global appeal of Nigerian music.

Rema’s journey continues to inspire many, establishing him as a trailblazer in the music industry and a significant figure in the ongoing narrative of Afrobeats on the global stage.