In the vibrant landscape of Nigerian music, one name continues to echo across continents — Rema, born Divine Ikubor. From the bustling streets of Benin City, Edo State, to the grandest global stages, Rema’s story is one of raw talent, bold vision, and an unshakable belief in destiny.
Today, he stands as one of Nigeria’s most successful global exports — an artist who has redefined Afrobeats for a new generation while proudly representing Edo heritage.
Early Life and Edo Background
Rema was born on May 1, 2000, in Benin City, the heart of Edo State. Raised in a close-knit Christian family, young Divine Ikubor was surrounded by the cultural richness of Edo traditions and the resilience that defines its people.
Life wasn’t easy. After losing his father and older brother at a young age, Rema’s world changed drastically. But even through loss and hardship, he found solace in creativity. As a teenager, he began writing songs and performing in his local church, where his musical journey truly began.
The rhythm of Benin — from the street sounds to church drums — shaped his sense of melody. Long before the world knew him as Rema, Divine was already known locally as the boy with “fire in his sound.” His upbringing in Edo remains the foundation of his humility, work ethic, and cultural pride.
How Rema Was Discovered by D’Prince (Jonzing World)
Rema’s big break came from a moment of pure hustle and faith. In 2018, while still a teenager, he recorded a freestyle of “Gucci Gang” — a song originally by D’Prince featuring Don Jazzy and Davido. He uploaded the clip on Instagram, unaware it would soon change his life.
D’Prince saw the video, was instantly impressed, and reached out. Recognizing Rema’s unique sound — a blend of trap, Afrobeats, and pop — D’Prince signed him to his label Jonzing World, under the Mavin Records umbrella headed by Don Jazzy.
That discovery was a turning point. Rema moved from Benin City to Lagos to begin a professional music career. Within months, he was in the studio creating songs that would later define a new era in Afrobeats.
Breakout Hit “Dumebi” and Global Fame
In 2019, Rema released his debut self-titled EP “Rema.” The standout track, “Dumebi,” instantly became a national and international sensation. The song’s infectious rhythm, playful lyrics, and colorful video made it one of the biggest hits of the year — introducing the world to a new sound of Afrobeats: youthful, futuristic, and global.
“Dumebi” wasn’t just a song — it was a statement. It showed that Rema could connect across cultures without losing his Nigerian roots. Soon, he was being called “the future of Afrobeats.”
He followed up with other successful projects, including “Rema Freestyle EP” and “Bad Commando.” His sound fused Afrobeats, trap, and pop in a way that appealed to both African and Western audiences.
By 2020, his music was charting across Africa, Europe, and the United States. Major media outlets like The Guardian UK, Billboard, and Pitchfork hailed him as one of the most promising young African stars to watch.
Awards, Records, and International Performances
Since his debut, Rema has accumulated an impressive list of achievements.
He won Next Rated Artist at the Headies Awards 2019, officially marking him as the face of Nigeria’s next music generation. He’s also earned nominations and wins from BET, MTV, and Soundcity MVP Awards.
Rema’s global influence skyrocketed after the release of “Calm Down” in 2022 — a smooth, catchy single that would go on to break multiple records. The song’s remix featuring Selena Gomez became a worldwide anthem, reaching Billboard Hot 100 Top 5 and surpassing one billion streams on Spotify — the first African song to achieve that milestone.
He’s performed at sold-out concerts from London’s O2 Arena to New York’s Madison Square Garden, alongside global superstars like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido.
His fanbase, known as Ravers, has become a global movement — a community of young people inspired by Rema’s message of confidence, creativity, and self-belief.
The Rema Sound and Brand “Ravager”
Rema’s sound — often called AfroRave — is an evolution of Afrobeats mixed with trap and alternative influences. His style has been praised for pushing the boundaries of African music and appealing to global audiences.
In fashion and branding, Rema embraces a futuristic aesthetic with bold accessories, streetwear, and spiritual symbolism. His creative persona, Ravager, represents rebellion, innovation, and a bridge between African heritage and global youth culture.
What’s Next for Rema in 2025
As of 2025, Rema continues to dominate the charts and expand his artistry. He has teased new collaborations with international stars and hinted at a possible sophomore album that will explore “a deeper, more spiritual side of Afrobeats.”
He’s also announced plans to give back to his community in Edo State — including supporting young creatives and funding music workshops in Benin City. His success story has become a source of pride for Edo youth, proving that greatness can rise from anywhere.
Rema represents more than music — he’s a symbol of possibility. From the streets of Benin to the global stage, his journey embodies faith, persistence, and the unbreakable Edo spirit.
Conclusion: The Pride of Edo, The Future of Afrobeats
Rema’s story is not just about fame; it’s about vision. It’s about a young Edo boy who dared to dream beyond limits and turned those dreams into soundtracks that now unite millions across continents.
As Afrobeats continues to dominate the world, Rema stands at its forefront — proof that the next global superstar can come from anywhere, even the humble neighborhoods of Benin City.
Rema is not just a musician; he is a movement.
And from Edo to the world, his rhythm keeps reminding us that greatness speaks every language — and sometimes, it sings in Afrobeats.
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