Divine Ikubor, professionally known as Rema, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and performer credited with popularizing the “Afro-rave” sound — a fusion of Afrobeats, trap, and pop music. Signed to Mavin Records and Jonzing World, Rema has quickly become one of the leading voices of the new generation of Afrobeats stars, earning international recognition with hits like Dumebi, Calm Down, and Soundgasm.
Early Life and Background
Rema was born on May 1, 2000, in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. He grew up in a Christian household and began singing and rapping in his teenage years. His talent was first noticed when he posted a freestyle over D’Prince’s song Gucci Gang on Instagram, which eventually led to his signing with Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records.
Career Beginnings
Rema rose to prominence in 2019 after releasing his self-titled debut EP, Rema, which featured the breakout hit Dumebi. The song became a viral success across Africa and beyond, cementing his place as a fast-rising star in the music industry. His blend of youthful energy, melodic hooks, and genre-bending production made him stand out among his peers.
Rise to Fame
Following his debut, Rema released a series of EPs and singles that showcased his versatility, including Iron Man, which was featured on former U.S. President Barack Obama’s 2019 summer playlist. His debut album Rave & Roses (2022) solidified his global impact, featuring the smash hit Calm Down. The remix of Calm Down featuring Selena Gomez became one of the most streamed Afrobeats songs worldwide, breaking records on Billboard charts and streaming platforms.
Musical Style and Influence
Rema describes his sound as “Afro-rave,” a unique blend of Afrobeats, trap, hip-hop, and Indian-inspired melodies. His music often explores themes of love, youth, and self-expression. He cites artists like Wizkid, Fela Kuti, and Drake as inspirations, but his sound remains distinct, appealing to both African and international audiences.
Recent Projects
In 2023 and 2024, Rema continued his global takeover with multiple tours, award wins, and collaborations with international stars. His singles Holiday and Charm maintained strong chart positions, and he performed at major global festivals, proving his staying power as one of Afrobeats’ most important voices.
Personal Life
Rema tends to keep his personal life private, focusing on his music and artistry. In interviews, he often discusses his faith, his journey from Benin City to the global stage, and his desire to inspire young Africans to pursue their dreams.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Rema’s net worth is estimated to be between $5 million and $10 million. His earnings come from music streaming, live performances, international collaborations, endorsements, and brand partnerships.
Summary
Rema’s journey from a young boy freestyling on Instagram to a globally recognized Afrobeats superstar is nothing short of inspiring. His genre-bending music, infectious energy, and dedication to pushing African music to new heights make him one of the most influential artists of his generation.