If you’ve scrolled through Twitter or tuned into the latest global music charts recently, chances are you’ve encountered the name REMA, often accompanied by blazing fire emojis and a wave of enthusiastic comments. This 23-year-old Nigerian artist, whose name is Divine Ikubor, has become an undeniable force in the music world, blending Afrobeats with trap, pop, and a dash of something uniquely his own. But what’s behind the meteoric rise of this young star, and why has he captured the world’s attention so swiftly?
REMA’s journey from the streets of Benin City to the top of international music charts is nothing short of remarkable, like a script from a Nollywood blockbuster. His breakout single, “Dumebi,” released in 2019, was a viral sensation that marked his arrival in the music scene. The catchy tune was inescapable, played in clubs, on the radio, and, of course, on social media. It wasn’t just a hit; it was a movement. The song’s infectious energy and REMA’s smooth vocals captured the imagination of a global audience, helping it rack up over 100 million streams on Spotify alone, solidifying REMA’s place as a global artist.
But REMA didn’t stop there. His debut EP, *Rema*, which housed “Dumebi,” was an introduction to his eclectic style, melding traditional Afrobeats with a futuristic twist. It didn’t take long for the world to notice that REMA was not just another one-hit-wonder.
The EP garnered over 120 million streams across all platforms within its first year. But REMA wasn’t done. He followed up with a series of hits, including “Iron Man,” which caught the attention of former U.S. President Barack Obama, who included it in his 2019 summer playlist. Imagine being just 19 yrs of age and having your song handpicked by a former world leader.
Fast forward to 2023, and REMA’s impact is felt more profoundly. His collaboration with American singer Selena Gomez on the remix of “Calm Down” skyrocketed his reach. The remix became a cross-continental smash, amassing over 1 billion streams on Spotify and 700 million views on YouTube. It also made history by becoming the first African song to enter the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100, a testament to his global appeal.
Mavin’s resources and expertise were funneled into crafting REMA’s image, sound, and global appeal. This was not just another artist being signed, it was a carefully curated project aimed at global domination. REMA’s journey has been marked by significant personal and professional support that has played a pivotal role in his success. D’Prince, who discovered REMA, has often spoken about the young artist’s work ethic and hunger to learn. In an interview, he mentioned,
“REMA is a sponge. He soaks up everything, advice, criticism, and praise, and uses it to better his craft.’’ Furthermore, Mavin Records, under Don Jazzy’s leadership, has allowed REMA to experiment with his sound. This freedom has enabled REMA to create music that transcends genres, appealing to a global audience. In an industry where artists are often pressured to conform to a particular sound, REMA’s ability to stay true to himself is a testament to the support he has received from his label.
With great success, however, comes scrutiny. REMA has been at the center of various debates, both within and outside the Nigerian music industry. One of the most notable was the controversy over whether he should be classified as an Afrobeats artist or something else entirely. Purists argue that his sound deviates too much from traditional Afrobeats, while others praise him for pushing the boundaries and introducing a new flavor to the genre.
REMA himself addressed this in a now-viral Instagram post, stating, “I’m not here to fit into anyone’s box. I’m here to create my own sound and let the world vibe with it.” This declaration was met with applause from his fanbase, who have adopted a fiercely loyal stance in defending his artistic choices. The post was shared widely, with fans and fellow artists alike chiming in to show their support.
Also is the debate about whether he deserves to be counted among Nigeria’s Big 4—Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, and Olamide. These four artists have been the pillars of Nigerian music for the past decade, each bringing something unique to the table. But with REMA’s rapid ascent, many are questioning if it’s time to shake up the hierarchy.
Those in favor of REMA’s inclusion argue that his achievements in such a short time are unparalleled. His ability to break into the notoriously difficult international market, coupled with his global streaming numbers, makes him a formidable force. Moreover, his influence on the younger generation of artists cannot be overstated. REMA has inspired a new wave of Nigerian musicians who are unafraid to blend genres and push boundaries.
However, there are pundits who believe that REMA still has a lot to prove. They argue that while his success is impressive, the Big 4 have built legacies over a decade or more, with numerous albums, awards, and cultural impact to their names. For REMA to be considered among them, they say, he needs to consistently deliver over the years and prove that he’s not just a flash in the pan.
But it’s not just music where REMA is making waves. He’s also become something of a fashion icon, often seen sporting bold and unique outfits that further set him apart from his peers. His collaboration with major brands like BoohooMAN has only solidified his status as a trendsetter, with limited-edition drops selling out in minutes. So, what’s next for REMA? If his track record is anything to go by, we can expect even bigger things. Giving his ability to consistently top charts and break records, there’s little doubt that whatever he releases next will be met with eager anticipation.
REMA represents a new era of Nigerian music, one that is unapologetically global, yet deeply rooted in African culture. His rise is a story of talent, tenacity, and a touch of that ‘special something’ that makes stars truly shine. As he continues to navigate his career, one thing is certain: REMA is not just riding the wave of Afrobeats’ global takeover; he’s helping to steer the ship.
