Rema

 

Biography of Rema

Full Name: Divine Ikubor

Stage Name: Rema

Date of Birth: May 1, 2000

Place of Birth: Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria

Genre: Afrobeat, Afropop, Trap, Afro-Rave

Rema, born Divine Ikubor, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and rapper who burst onto the music scene with a unique sound that blends Afrobeat, Afropop, and trap. Growing up in Benin City, he developed a passion for music at a young age and was involved in his church’s music group, where he honed his performance skills. His breakthrough came in 2018 when he posted a freestyle of D’Prince’s Gucci Gang on Instagram, catching the attention of D’Prince, a prominent artist and music executive at Mavin Records.

In 2019, Rema signed with Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records, founded by D’Prince. His self-titled debut EP, "Rema," released the same year, included hit tracks like Dumebi, Iron Man, and Corny. Dumebi quickly became a massive hit, earning Rema international recognition, while Iron Man appeared on former U.S. President Barack Obama’s summer playlist, propelling his fame even further.

Rema continued to build on his success with subsequent releases like the "Bad Commando" EP and a series of hit singles, including Lady and Beamer (Bad Boys). His genre-bending style, which he refers to as “Afro-Rave,” combines elements of Afropop, trap, and dancehall, setting him apart from his contemporaries.

In 2022, Rema released his debut album, "Rave & Roses," which featured collaborations with artists like Chris Brown, AJ Tracey, and 6LACK. The album spawned hits like Calm Down, a global anthem that later had a remix featuring Selena Gomez, and Soundgasm, a sultry track that showcased his vocal range and musical versatility. Calm Down became a viral sensation, topping charts worldwide and earning Rema a broader international fanbase.

Rema’s music has earned him several awards and nominations, including at The Headies and BET Awards. He is also known for coining his unique genre, “Afro-Rave,” which continues to influence the global music landscape.

Review of Rema’s Music and Impact

Rema’s music is characterized by his smooth vocals, catchy melodies, and experimental sound. His ability to blend Afrobeat with trap, EDM, and pop influences has made him one of the most innovative artists of his generation. Songs like Dumebi and Iron Man are perfect examples of his playful, youthful sound, while tracks like Soundgasm highlight his maturity and vocal prowess.

Rema's use of diverse musical elements allows him to appeal to a wide audience, both in Africa and around the world. His lyrics often revolve around themes of love, relationships, and the carefree nature of youth. His hit single Calm Down has become one of the most recognizable Afropop songs globally, and the remix with Selena Gomez has introduced him to an even larger audience, establishing him as an international star.

Fans and critics have praised Rema for his ability to push boundaries and redefine what African music can sound like. His willingness to experiment with new sounds and blend genres makes him a trailblazer in the Afrobeat movement. His influence can be seen in the rising trend of Afro-Rave, inspiring a new wave of artists to explore diverse musical styles.

Rema's rapid rise to fame and global success have solidified his position as one of the most promising talents in the African music scene. His music not only celebrates African culture but also bridges the gap between traditional Afrobeat and modern global sounds, making him a key figure in the ongoing internationalization of Afropop.