Divine Ikubor (Rema) Biography: Early Life, Rise, and Net Worth

Rema Biography

Divine Joshua Ikubor, professionally known as Rema, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and rapper who has emerged as one of the most influential voices in the global Afrobeats scene. Born on May 1, 2000, in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, Rema blends Afrobeats with trap, pop, and innovative sounds he describes as “Afrorave.” His rapid rise from local talent to international superstar highlights his distinctive voice, energetic performances, and ability to fuse cultural roots with universal appeal.

With hits that have topped charts worldwide and collaborations with major artists, Rema represents a new generation of African musicians breaking barriers. His music often celebrates resilience, joy, and cultural pride, earning him a dedicated global fanbase known as the Ravers. As of 2026, he continues to shape the Afrobeats movement while expanding his influence across music, fashion, and entertainment.

Rema Early Life and Background

Divine Joshua Ikubor was born on May 1, 2000, into a Christian family in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. He hails from Igbanke in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State. Growing up, he faced significant challenges, including the loss of his father, Justice Ikubor, in 2008, and later his elder brother. These events shaped his early years, and he was primarily raised by his mother, who played a key role in supporting his development and dreams.

Rema discovered his passion for music during his secondary school days at Ighile Group of Schools in Edo State. He began singing and rapping as a young boy, often performing in church and participating in school activities. His early influences included gospel music and the vibrant sounds of his local community. Despite the hardships, music became an outlet for expression and hope. He started creating music around the age of 11, initially as a rapper before evolving his style to match popular trends. His journey from Benin City to Lagos marked the beginning of his professional career, driven by determination and family support.

Rema Education

Rema completed his primary and secondary education at Ighile Group of Schools in Edo State. He showed interest in creative pursuits alongside his studies. In January 2022, he gained admission to the University of Lagos to study, fulfilling his mother’s wish for him to obtain a degree. However, he had to pause his university education in 2023 due to the prolonged ASUU strike affecting academic activities in Nigerian public universities. His educational path reflects a balance between academic aspirations and a thriving music career.

Rema Career

Rema’s professional music career began in 2019. He gained initial attention by posting a viral freestyle on Instagram to D’Prince’s song “Gucci Gang.” This impressed D’Prince, who flew him to Lagos and signed him to Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records founded by music executive Don Jazzy. This move proved pivotal, providing the platform and resources needed for his breakthrough.

In 2019, Rema released his self-titled debut EP, Rema, which topped Apple Music Nigeria charts. The standout track “Dumebi” became a massive hit, with its music video gaining millions of views. Another song from the EP appeared on former US President Barack Obama’s summer playlist, boosting his visibility. He also contributed to the FIFA 21 soundtrack. That same year, he released additional EPs like Rema Freestyle and Bad Commando.

His sound, which he calls “Afrorave,” mixes Afrobeats with elements of trap, pop, house, and global influences. This unique style helped him build a strong fanbase. In 2021, he became a brand ambassador for Pepsi alongside label mate Ayra Starr.

Major Releases and Achievements

Rema released his debut studio album, Rave & Roses, on March 25, 2022. The 16-track project featured collaborations with artists like 6lack, Chris Brown, AJ Tracey, and Yseult. It performed well on charts, with several songs entering the US Billboard Afrobeats Chart. The lead single “Calm Down” achieved global success, especially after a remix with Selena Gomez. The remix peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100, spent a record 58 weeks at number one on the US Afrobeats Songs chart, and earned multiple awards, including the MTV Video Music Award for Best Afrobeats Video and Billboard Music Award for Top Afrobeats Song. By late 2022, Rema celebrated over one billion streams worldwide.

In 2023, he dropped the deluxe edition Rave & Roses Ultra, which became the first African album to surpass two billion streams on Spotify. He also released the Ravage EP in October 2023 and performed at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris.

His second studio album, Heis, arrived on July 10, 2024. The title draws from the Greek word for “number one.” It featured a darker, drum-driven sound with contributions from Shallipopi and Odumodublvck. Singles like “Benin Boys” and “Hehehe” highlighted Edo cultural references and themes of pride. The album received a Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Album at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards, marking his first nomination in that category.

In 2025, Rema continued releasing singles such as “Baby (Is It a Crime),” sampling Sade, and “Bout U.” He became one of the most-streamed Nigerian artists on YouTube, with “Calm Down” crossing one billion views.

Rema has released two studio albums: Rave & Roses (2022) and Heis (2024). His EPs include Rema (2019), Rema Freestyle (2019), Bad Commando (2019), and Ravage (2023). Popular songs in his catalog feature “Dumebi,” “Calm Down,” “Soundgasm,” “Charm,” “Ginger Me,” “Bounce,” “Benin Boys,” “Hehehe,” and many collaborations. These works showcase his growth from energetic debut tracks to more mature and culturally rooted projects.

Throughout his career, Rema has undertaken tours, including the Rave & Roses World Tour (2022), and received numerous accolades that affirm his impact on Afrobeats and global music.

Rema Personal Life

Rema maintains a relatively private personal life despite his fame. He has spoken about valuing style and personality in a partner over financial status, noting that he already has resources. Over the years, he has been linked to various rumors involving celebrities, but he remains focused on his career and has expressed hopes for marriage and family in the future, possibly with three or four children. He has mentioned having few serious relationships since gaining prominence.

He has addressed family matters publicly, including tweeting in 2020 about his father’s death and seeking accountability. Rema draws strength from his roots in Benin City and often references his Edo heritage in his music. He balances his busy schedule with moments of reflection, crediting his mother for his resilience.

Rema Net Worth

Rema’s net worth has grown substantially with his success. Estimates in recent years vary, with figures ranging from around 1 million USD in earlier reports to higher valuations between 10 million and over 20 million USD by 2025-2026, depending on sources. His earnings come from music sales, streaming royalties, live performances, brand endorsements like Pepsi, and other ventures. High-profile shows, such as reportedly earning millions for select performances, contribute to his wealth. He enjoys a comfortable lifestyle, including properties and vehicles, reflecting his achievements in the music industry.

Conclusion

Rema’s journey from a young talent in Benin City to a global Afrobeats icon demonstrates the power of talent, perseverance, and innovation. His music has not only entertained millions but also elevated Nigerian and African sounds on the world stage. As he continues to evolve and release new work, Rema inspires upcoming artists and cements his legacy as a trailblazer. His story reminds readers that challenges can fuel creativity and success. With ongoing projects and a growing influence, Rema is poised for even greater accomplishments in the years ahead.

FAQs

What is Rema’s real name and date of birth?

Rema’s real name is Divine Joshua Ikubor. He was born on May 1, 2000.

Where was Rema born and what is his nationality?

Rema was born in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. He is Nigerian.

What are some of Rema’s most popular songs?

Some of Rema’s most popular songs include “Dumebi,” “Calm Down” (with Selena Gomez), “Soundgasm,” “Charm,” “Ginger Me,” “Bounce,” “Benin Boys,” and “Hehehe.”

What albums has Rema released?

Rema has released studio albums Rave & Roses (2022) and Heis (2024), along with several EPs such as Rema (2019), Bad Commando (2019), and Ravage (2023).

Has Rema won any major awards?

Yes, Rema has won awards including the MTV Video Music Award for Best Afrobeats Video and Billboard Music Award for Top Afrobeats Song. He also received a Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Album.

What is Rema’s net worth?

Estimates of Rema’s net worth vary, often placed in the range of several million USD, reflecting income from music, endorsements, and performances.

Is Rema married or in a relationship?

Rema is not married. He keeps details of his personal relationships private but has shared preferences for future partnerships.

What genre does Rema perform?

Rema performs Afrobeats, incorporating elements of trap, pop, and his signature Afrorave style.

Where did Rema go to school?

He attended Ighile Group of Schools in Edo State for primary and secondary education and was admitted to the University of Lagos.

What is Rema’s impact on Afrobeats?

Rema has helped globalize Afrobeats through chart-topping hits, international collaborations, and innovative sounds, inspiring a new wave of African artists.