From his debut EP to his recent record-breaking collaborations, Rema is continually redefining what it means to be an Afrobeats star in today’s music landscape.

Rema’s meteoric rise began with a dream. Born Divine Ikubor in Benin City, Nigeria, Rema’s early years were shaped by hardship and resilience. 

The passing of his father when Rema was just a child marked the beginning of a difficult journey. Yet, these challenges ignited the fire that would fuel his musical career. 

Determined to change his family’s circumstances, Rema ventured to Ghana at the age of 17, where he began his musical journey in earnest. A few years later, after being discovered by Nigerian music mogul D’Prince, he signed with Mavin Records, setting the stage for his breakthrough.

His debut EP Rema showcased his versatility, effortlessly blending Afrobeats with hip-hop, trap, and pop. It was Dumebi, the infectious anthem from that project, that introduced the world to Rema’s signature style: a perfect balance of youthful swagger and undeniable musicality. 

But it was his debut album Rave & Roses that truly signaled his arrival on the global stage, with tracks like Calm Down catapulting him to international fame.

The success of Calm Down was nothing short of extraordinary. Rema’s collaboration with Selena Gomez on the remix saw the song climb to new heights, breaking streaming records and achieving a massive milestone Rema became the first African artist to surpass a billion streams on Spotify. 

This achievement not only solidified Rema’s place in Afrobeats history but also marked a defining moment for the genre itself, proving that African music could no longer be ignored by mainstream audiences.

Rema’s success, however, has never been about mere numbers. It’s about his commitment to his roots and the cultural pride he carries with him. His fashion choices, for instance, are often a statement of his heritage—like the custom diamond chain he wore to the 2024 Grammys, featuring portraits of his late father and brother. This symbolizes more than just family; it’s a nod to his journey, his struggles, and the legacy he continues to build.

 

As he continues to break records and push boundaries, Rema has also become an ambassador for the genre, proudly representing the Afrobeats movement on global stages. His achievements have earned him the respect of his peers and mentors, including Burna Boy and Wizkid, who recognize Rema as a trailblazer in his own right. Yet, despite his fame, Rema remains grounded, often reflecting on the struggles he’s overcome and using them as fuel for his music.

In his latest release, Baby (Is It a Crime), Rema channels his signature blend of smooth melodies and rhythmic innovation. The song’s success, garnering millions of streams within hours of its release, further proves that Rema is not just a passing trend—he’s a musical phenomenon with staying power. 

His ability to merge Afrobeat rhythms with global influences continues to captivate audiences across the world, and his latest singles prove that the best is yet to come.

For Rema, the journey is far from over. 

He is not only an Afrobeats star but a global icon in the making, using his platform to bring African music to new heights. His unwavering dedication to his craft and his unique blend of cultural pride and international appeal are what make him stand out in a crowded music industry.

Rema’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and success—a story that is still unfolding, with no signs of slowing down. As he continues to break records, redefine the Afrobeats genre, and inspire millions around the world, Rema is showing that there are no limits to what African artists can achieve on the global stage.