Rema, whose real name is Divine Ikubor, is one of the most influential young artists shaping the future of Afrobeats. The Benin City–born superstar has captured both Nigerian and global audiences with his fresh sound, often referred to as Afrorave. From humble beginnings to international recognition, here are 10 interesting facts about Rema you need to know.

1. His Roots in Church Music

Before stepping into the limelight, Rema started singing and developing his vocal talent in a church choir. This foundation gave him the melodic strength that now defines his music.

2. Discovered by D’Prince

Rema’s big break came when D’Prince, the younger brother of Don Jazzy, discovered him. This led to his signing under Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records, launching him into stardom.

3. A Versatile Musician

Although widely celebrated for Afrobeats, Rema experiments with genres such as trap, hip-hop, and Indian-inspired sounds, creating his own distinctive blend.

4. Early Global Recognition

His debut single “Iron Man” made headlines after being featured on former U.S. President Barack Obama’s 2019 summer playlist, introducing Rema to a worldwide audience.

5. Humble Beginnings in Benin City

Growing up in Benin City, Edo State, Rema faced tough times. He lost both his father and brother at a young age and was raised in a modest family, which shaped his resilience and drive for success.

6. Creator of Afrorave

Rema coined the term “Afrorave” to define his signature style — a fusion of Afrobeat, Indian, and Middle Eastern influences. This innovation has earned him recognition as a trailblazer in global Afrobeats.

7. A Teenage Breakthrough

At just 18 years old, Rema burst onto the mainstream scene, becoming one of Nigeria’s youngest artists to achieve international acclaim.

8. Multilingual Talent

Rema communicates fluently in English, Pidgin, and Edo language. He has also hinted at incorporating more languages into his music to connect with a wider global audience.

9. An Artist Beyond Music

Beyond his hit records, Rema is also a gifted visual artist. He enjoys sketching and drawing in his free time, showcasing his creativity in more ways than just music.

10. Guided by Faith and Destiny

Rema often emphasizes his belief in destiny and divine guidance. He has credited his journey to faith, which keeps him grounded despite fame and success.

Conclusion

From the church choir in Benin to topping international charts, Rema’s story is one of passion, resilience, and innovation. As he continues to push boundaries with his Afrorave sound, he is undoubtedly one of the brightest stars of his generation and a global ambassador for Nigerian music.