In the pulsating world of Afrobeats, few stars shine as brightly as Divine Ikubor, better known as Rema. At just 24, this Nigerian sensation has catapulted Afrobeats onto the global stage, blending infectious rhythms with a fearless creative edge. The buzz surrounding his “HEIS World Tour 2025” only amplifies his meteoric rise, with fans eagerly awaiting performances in cities like Edmonton (April 11), Houston (April 27), Chicago (April 30), Boston (May 6), New York (May 3), Laval (May 10), Toronto (May 11), and London (June 8). These stops, spanning North America and Europe, underscore his growing dominance in the music scene.

This blog dives into Rema’s journey—from his humble beginnings to his chart-topping success—while unpacking his career milestones, controversies, and what lies ahead. A key moment in his ascent was his collaboration with Selena Gomez on the “Calm Down” remix, a track that shattered records and introduced Afrobeats to new audiences worldwide. As Rema continues to redefine the genre, his story is one of talent, resilience, and unrelenting ambition. Let’s explore how this young trailblazer became a household name and what his future holds.

REMA: HEIS WORLD TOUR 2025 Tickets

Rema’s Background and Early Life

Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, hails from Benin City, a vibrant cultural hub in Edo State, Nigeria. Born on May 1, 2000, into a Christian family, Rema’s roots in this bustling city shaped his identity and sound. Growing up in Benin City, a place renowned for its rich history and artistic heritage, he was surrounded by a melting pot of influences—traditional Edo rhythms, Afrobeat pioneers like Fela Kuti, and the global sounds of hip-hop and trap. As of March 5, 2025, Rema is 24 years old, and by the end of his “HEIS World Tour 2025,” he’ll still be 25, a testament to how young he remains while achieving such monumental success.

Rema’s early life wasn’t without challenges. Raised by his mother after losing his father and older brother at a young age, he leaned on music as both an escape and a purpose. His musical journey began in the most humble of settings—his local church. There, he honed his skills, rapping and singing in the choir, laying the groundwork for his distinctive style. Freestyling with friends in his neighborhood further fueled his passion, as he experimented with blending local sounds with contemporary genres.

His big break came in 2018 when a video of him freestyling over D’Prince’s track “Gucci Gang” caught the attention of the artist himself. D’Prince, a Nigerian musician and founder of Jonzing World, saw raw potential in the teenager. In 2019, at just 18, Rema signed with Jonzing World, a subsidiary of the powerhouse label Mavin Records, helmed by legendary producer Don Jazzy. This partnership marked a turning point. Jonzing World positioned Rema as the flagbearer of their “Afro-rave” movement—a fusion of Afrobeats, trap, and Indian-inspired melodies—while Mavin’s infrastructure amplified his reach.

Rema’s debut single, “Iron Man,” dropped shortly after his signing, showcasing his unique voice and genre-bending flair. The track’s success signaled the arrival of a new force in Afrobeats. From church pews to studio booths, Rema’s early life reflects a blend of grit, faith, and an unrelenting drive to innovate—a foundation that continues to propel him toward global stardom.

Rema’s Musical Career and Rise to Fame

Divine Ikubor, known globally as Rema, erupted onto the music scene in 2019 with his breakthrough single “Dumebi.” Signed to Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records, the then-18-year-old from Benin City, Nigeria, introduced a fresh sound that captivated listeners. “Dumebi,” part of his self-titled debut EP, blended Afrobeats with trap and Indian-inspired melodies, earning millions of streams and cementing his status as a rising star. The track’s hypnotic rhythm and playful lyrics showcased Rema’s knack for crafting earworms, setting the stage for his rapid ascent.

Among Rema’s catalog, “Calm Down” stands as a career-defining hit. Released in February 2022 as part of his debut album Rave & Roses, the song’s original version radiated a mellow Afrobeats vibe with lyrics like, “Baby, calm down, calm down / Girl, this your body e put my heart for lockdown.” Its romantic undertones and smooth production resonated widely, but it was the remix with Selena Gomez, released in August 2022, that propelled Rema to global superstardom.

Gomez’s sultry contribution—“Baby, show me you can calm down, calm down / Dance with me and take the lead now”—added a pop flair, pushing the track to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and dominating the Billboard Afrobeats Songs chart for a record 58 weeks. The remix amassed over a billion streams, becoming the most-viewed Afrobeats video on YouTube and earning platinum certifications worldwide. This collaboration not only bridged Afrobeats with Western pop but also opened doors for the genre on international stages, from award shows to playlists curated by figures like Barack Obama.

Rema’s unique sound, which he dubs “Afrorave,” fuses Afrobeats with trap, hip-hop, and global influences like Arabian and Indian music. Early hits like “Iron Man” and “Corny” from his debut EP hinted at this genre-blending prowess, while Rave & Roses (2022) expanded his palette with collaborations featuring Chris Brown and 6lack. His sophomore album, Heis (2024), marked an evolution—grittier, bolder, and unapologetically Nigerian, as seen in tracks like “Benin Boys” with Shallipopi. This shift reflects Rema’s intent to push boundaries while staying rooted in his heritage, earning him a Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Album in 2025.

The “HEIS World Tour 2025” underscores Rema’s global pull. Kicking off in North America, the tour includes stops like Edmonton (April 11), Houston (April 27), Chicago (April 30), Boston (May 6), New York (May 3), Laval (May 10), and Toronto (May 11), before crossing to London (June 8). Notably, Vassar College at Michigan State University isn’t an official stop—there may be confusion here, as Vassar College is in New York, not Michigan, and Michigan State University is a separate entity.

Still, the tour’s reach highlights Rema’s ambition to connect with fans worldwide, from North American arenas to European stages like Paris’s Accor Arena (June 28). Each performance promises to showcase his electrifying stage presence and evolving artistry.

As a side note, “Rema 1000” occasionally pops up in searches related to the artist, but it’s unrelated—a Norwegian discount supermarket chain with no connection to Divine Ikubor. The phrase “Rema 1000” in his context might stem from fan shorthand or mistranslations, but it holds no musical significance.

Rema’s rise isn’t just about catchy hooks; it’s a testament to his hustle and vision. From freestyling in Benin City to headlining at venues like London’s O2 Arena in 2023, he’s carried Afrobeats to new heights. With Heis and the 2025 tour, Rema continues to redefine the genre, proving he’s not just a star—he’s a movement.

Other Afrobeats Artists

Rema’s meteoric rise is a testament to Afrobeats’ global takeover, but he’s far from the only artist driving the genre’s success. Nigeria, the epicenter of Afrobeats, has produced a constellation of stars who’ve shaped its sound and carried it across borders. Beyond Rema, here are some standout Afrobeats artists who’ve made significant waves, blending traditional African rhythms with modern influences to captivate audiences worldwide.

Wizkid—Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, aka Wizkid, is a pioneer of Afrobeats’ international breakthrough. His 2016 collaboration with Drake on “One Dance” hit No. 1 in 15 countries, introducing the genre to millions. Tracks like “Essence” (featuring Tems) from his 2020 album Made in Lagos further solidified his status, earning RIAA quadruple platinum status and a Grammy nomination. Wizkid’s smooth vocals and fusion of Afrobeats with R&B and pop have inspired countless younger artists.

Burna Boy—Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, the self-proclaimed “African Giant,” blends Afrobeats with reggae, dancehall, and Afro-fusion. His 2018 album Outside marked his global ascent, followed by African Giant (2019), which earned a Grammy nomination, and Twice as Tall (2020), which won Best Global Music Album at the 2021 Grammys. Hits like “Ye” and “Last Last” showcase his knack for catchy hooks and socially conscious lyrics, making him a towering figure in the genre.

Davido—David Adedeji Adeleke, often called the “King of Afrobeats,” has been a trailblazer since his 2012 hit “Dami Duro.” Known for energetic performances and crossover anthems like “Fall” and “If,” Davido’s music fuses Afrobeats with hip-hop and R&B. His 2023 album Timeless earned three Grammy nods, and his label, Davido Music Worldwide, has nurtured talents like Mayorkun. His 2025 collaboration with 50 Cent and Mary J. Blige at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium signals his enduring influence.

Tems—Temilade Openiyi emerged as a standout with her soulful voice on Wizkid’s “Essence,” which became a global phenomenon. Her blend of Afrobeats and neo-soul shines in tracks like “Higher” and “Free Mind” from her 2020 EP For Broken Ears. Tems’ feature on Future’s “Wait for U” (with Drake) won a 2023 Grammy for Best Melodic Rap Performance, and her 2024 debut album Born in the Wild cements her as a genre-defining artist.

Asake—Ahmed Ololade, signed to Olamide’s YBNL Nation, exploded onto the scene with his 2022 debut Mr. Money with the Vibe. Hits like “Sungba” and “Amapiano” (featuring Olamide) fuse Afrobeats with Fuji and South African Amapiano, earning him a 2024 Grammy nod for Best African Music Performance. His rapid rise, including selling out London’s O2 Arena in 2023, highlights his infectious energy and innovative sound.

Tiwa Savage—Dubbed the “Queen of Afrobeats,” Tiwatope Savage transitioned from a backup singer for icons like George Michael to a Nigerian superstar. Her 2013 debut Once Upon a Time and hits like “Koroba” and “Somebody’s Son” (featuring Brandy) showcase her versatility. With a powerful voice and a knack for blending Afrobeats with EDM and R&B, she’s paved the way for female artists in the genre.

Fireboy DML—Adedamola Adefolahan, another YBNL signee, melds Afrobeats with R&B in hits like “Peru” (featuring Ed Sheeran) and “Jealous.” His 2020 album Apollo and 2022’s Playboy have racked up millions of streams, reflecting his knack for heartfelt lyrics and mellow vibes. His inclusion on the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack underscores his growing global reach.

Omah Lay—Stanley Omah Didia brings introspective depth to Afrobeats with tracks like “Bad Influence” and “Godly” from his 2020 EPs Get Layd and What Have We Done. His 2022 debut Boy Alone and collaboration with Justin Bieber on “Attention” highlight his fusion of Afrobeats with soulful, laid-back vibes, earning him a loyal following.

Ayra Starr—Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, a 22-year-old prodigy, burst onto the scene with her 2022 hit “Rush,” which blends Afropop and R&B. Signed to Mavin Records, her soulful voice and diverse sound have garnered over 24 million monthly Spotify listeners, marking her as a Gen-Z standout in Afrobeats’ new wave.

These artists, among others like Kizz Daniel, Mr Eazi, and Victony, illustrate Afrobeats’ rich diversity and unstoppable momentum. From Grammy wins to sold-out tours, they’re not just riding the wave—they’re shaping it, ensuring the genre’s global dominance continues to grow.

Addressing Controversies and Misconceptions

Rema’s meteoric rise in the Afrobeats scene has not come without its share of controversies and misconceptions. As his global fame grows, so do the rumors and interpretations surrounding his persona, music, and identity. Here, we unpack some of the most persistent questions and clarify the noise around this Nigerian star.

One recurring rumor asks: Is Rema demonic? This speculation stems largely from his bold artistic choices—think cryptic symbols, dark visuals in his Heis album era, and a penchant for pushing boundaries. Some fans and detractors point to his bat-themed merchandise and the edgy aesthetics of tracks like “Ozeba” as evidence of occult ties.

In a 2023 interview with Capital Xtra, Rema dismissed these claims, explaining that his imagery reflects creativity, not sinister intent. “I’m inspired by my culture, Benin history, and global sounds—not devil worship,” he said, laughing off the rumors. His roots in the church, where he sang and rapped as a kid, further debunk the narrative, showing his foundation is far from demonic.

Another question that surfaces online is: Is Rema gay? This speculation appears fueled by his flamboyant fashion—bright colors, jewelry, and unconventional styles—and the lack of public details about his romantic life. However, there’s no evidence to support this claim, and Rema has never addressed it directly, likely deeming it irrelevant to his craft. In a 2022 tweet, he emphasized, “My art is my focus, not my personal life,” redirecting attention to his music. Such rumors seem more a product of curiosity about his private nature than any concrete basis.

The name “Rema” itself sparks confusion. In Spanish, “rema” means “oar” or “paddle,” while some draw parallels to the biblical Greek term “rhema,” meaning “spoken word” or “utterance,” tying it to his lyrical prowess or church upbringing. Yet, Rema’s moniker is simply a shortened version of his birth name, Divine Ikubor—no hidden meanings, just a catchy stage alias. He confirmed this in a Genius interview, saying, “It’s just me, simplified.” Still, the overlap with these terms adds an intriguing layer for fans to ponder.

So, what is Rema? Beyond the rumors, he’s an artist redefining Afrobeats with his “Afrorave” sound—a fusion of Afrobeats, trap, hip-hop, and Indian influences. His identity is tied to innovation, resilience, and Benin City pride, as seen in tracks like “Benin Boys.” He’s not just a musician; he’s a cultural bridge, carrying Nigerian vibes to global stages like his “HEIS World Tour 2025.” His evolution from the mellow Rave & Roses to the gritty Heis reflects an artist unafraid to experiment while staying true to his roots.

Finally, what language does Rema speak? He’s fluent in English, the lingua franca of Nigeria, and often raps and sings in Nigerian Pidgin, a creole that adds street flavor to hits like “Dumebi.” He also sprinkles in Edo, his native language from Benin City, subtly nodding to his heritage. This multilingual approach—mirrored in his lyrics—makes his music relatable to both local and international audiences.

Rema’s controversies and misconceptions are par for the course for a young star shaking up the status quo. By addressing them head-on, it’s clear he’s more than tabloid fodder—he’s a trailblazer whose art speaks louder than the rumors.

Rema’s Personal Life and Net Worth

Divine Ikubor, known to the world as Rema, has kept much of his personal life under wraps despite his global fame. Born on May 1, 2000, in Benin City, Nigeria, the 24-year-old Afrobeats sensation has built an impressive career, which naturally sparks curiosity about his finances and private world. As of March 5, 2025, estimates of Rema’s net worth vary widely depending on sources. In 2024, figures ranged from $1 million (per Forbes and HotNewHipHop) to as high as $10–15 million (per MusicBiography), driven by music sales, streaming royalties, live performances, and endorsement deals with brands like Pepsi and Tecno Mobile.

His 2022 hit “Calm Down” remix with Selena Gomez, which surpassed a billion streams, and his “HEIS World Tour 2025” are significant contributors. Projections for 2025 suggest his net worth could climb to $5–20 million, factoring in tour earnings, new releases, and potential investments, though these remain speculative given his private nature and fluctuating exchange rates (e.g., $1 = ₦1650, placing him between ₦8.25 billion and ₦33 billion).

As for his romantic life, who is Rema dating? The answer remains elusive. Rema has never confirmed a relationship publicly, and as of early 2025, no credible reports link him to anyone romantically. Sources like Legit.ng (2023) and Dockaysworld (2024) assert he’s single, focusing on his career rather than dating. His social media offers no hints, and he’s previously stated, “My art is my focus, not my personal life,” dodging speculation with finesse.

How tall is Rema? Reports peg him at 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm), with a weight of around 141 pounds (64 kg), per Legit.ng. While unverified by Rema himself, this aligns with his lean, energetic stage presence.

A point of confusion for some fans is “Rema Tip Top,” which has no connection to the artist. Rema Tip Top is a German company specializing in tire repair and industrial materials—a stark contrast to Divine Ikubor’s musical empire. The similarity in names is purely coincidental.

Who is Rema signed to? Since 2019, Rema has been under Jonzing World, a label founded by D’Prince, which operates as a subsidiary of Mavin Records, led by Don Jazzy. This dual affiliation has provided him with robust support, propelling hits like “Dumebi” and “Iron Man” to international acclaim. His personal life may stay mysterious, but his professional alliances and growing wealth speak volumes.

Rema and Tyla should be in a relationship ?

Rema, the Nigerian Afrobeat sensation, and Tyla, the South African Amapiano star, share a synergy that could spark both a romantic and musical wildfire. Both artists are young, vibrant, and at the forefront of Africa’s global music takeover. Rema’s smooth, genre-blending sound—think “Calm Down”—pairs effortlessly with Tyla’s sultry, rhythmic vibe, as heard in “Water.” Their chemistry could transcend the studio, creating a power couple that dominates charts and headlines.

Culturally, they’re a perfect fit. Rema’s Benin City roots and Tyla’s Johannesburg flair reflect a shared African pride, yet their distinct styles could inspire each other to new creative heights. Imagine a collab where Rema’s mellow crooning meets Tyla’s infectious dance beats—fans would lose it. Beyond music, their youthful energy and fashion-forward personas (Rema’s edgy streetwear, Tyla’s bold elegance) would make them red-carpet royalty.

A relationship could amplify their influence, uniting Nigerian and South African fanbases while showcasing Africa’s diversity. Sure, it’s speculative, but the idea of these two trailblazers linking up feels like a match made in Afrobeats heaven. The world wouldn’t just watch—they’d dance to it.

Rema’s “HEIS World Tour 2025” Details

Rema’s “HEIS World Tour 2025” is set to be a landmark moment for the Afrobeats superstar, showcasing his global appeal with a 23-date trek that kicks off in April 2025. Named after his critically acclaimed sophomore album Heis, the tour spans North America, Europe, and beyond, with a packed April and May schedule highlighting his ambition to dominate iconic venues. Here’s a deep dive into the tour’s early leg, its venues, and what fans can expect.

The tour launches on April 11, 2025, at the Edmonton EXPO Centre in Edmonton, Alberta, a sprawling venue with a capacity of over 7,000, known for hosting major acts amid its industrial charm. After hitting Coachella’s two weekends (April 13 and 20) in Indio, California, Rema heads to Mexico City before returning to the U.S. On April 27, he’ll electrify Houston’s 713 Music Hall, a modern 5,000-capacity space lauded for its acoustics. April 30 brings him to Chicago’s Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom, a historic 4,500-seat gem with ornate architecture, perfect for his vibrant energy.

May ramps up with marquee stops. On May 3, Rema headlines New York’s Madison Square Garden, “The World’s Most Famous Arena,” with a 19,500 capacity—a milestone shared by Nigerian giants like Burna Boy and Wizkid, signaling Afrobeats’ dominance. May 6 sees him at Boston’s MGM Music Hall at Fenway, a sleek 5,000-seat venue opened in 2022, blending intimacy with cutting-edge sound. On May 10, he crosses into Canada for Laval’s Place Bell, a 10,000-capacity arena near Montreal, before closing May 11 at Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena, a 19,800-seat titan hosting sports and music royalty alike. June 8 marks his UK pinnacle at London’s The O2, a 20,000-capacity behemoth synonymous with global superstars.

Anticipated performances promise a high-octane mix of Heis tracks like “Benin Boys” and “Ozeba” with hits like “Calm Down.” Stage production is expected to lean into Rema’s “Afrorave” aesthetic—think bold visuals, bat motifs, and dynamic lighting, amplifying his Benin-inspired edge. Performing at Madison Square Garden and The O2 isn’t just a flex; it’s a cultural statement, placing Rema among music’s elite.

Audience response? Electric. Posts on X from February 2025 show fans buzzing over these stops, predicting sell-outs and “unforgettable nights.” With his genre-blending charisma, Rema’s set to ignite crowds, cementing his status as Afrobeats’ next king.

Rema’s Future and Impact

Rema’s career trajectory is poised for even greater heights as he continues to redefine Afrobeats and cement his status as a global icon. At just 24 in 2025, his achievements—like the record-breaking “Calm Down” remix with Selena Gomez and his Grammy-nominated album Heis—suggest he’s only scratching the surface. Predictions for his future point to sustained dominance, potentially rivaling Afrobeats titans like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido.

Industry observers see him headlining more historic venues, possibly returning to Madison Square Garden or The O2 with even grander productions post his “HEIS World Tour 2025.” His knack for innovation hints at a third album that could push “Afrorave” further, blending Nigerian roots with futuristic sounds, ensuring his relevance into the 2030s.

His influence on the global Afrobeats scene is already profound. Rema’s genre-bending approach—fusing Afrobeats with trap, pop, and Indian influences—has expanded the genre’s sonic palette, making it more adaptable and appealing worldwide. His “Calm Down” success opened doors for Afrobeats categories at awards like the VMAs and inspired peers to experiment, as seen in posts on X praising his sonic leadership. By championing “Afrorave,” he’s not just following trends but setting them, positioning Afrobeats as a dynamic, evolving force rather than a static label.

Future collaborations could see Rema teaming up with artists like Drake (who’s shown interest via his manager), Rihanna (a dream collab he’s mentioned), or even boundary-pushers like Billie Eilish, blending their experimental vibes. Projects might include a deluxe Heis edition or a cinematic EP, as he’s hinted at drawing from films like Oppenheimer. His global pull makes him a prime candidate for soundtracks, following his Black Panther: Wakanda Forever contributions.

For young musicians, Rema is a beacon. His journey from Benin City church raps to international stages inspires Gen-Z artists to embrace their roots while dreaming big. His hustle—going viral with a freestyle to signing with Mavin—shows talent can break barriers, motivating talents like Qing Madi or Tml Vibez to innovate within Afrobeats.

Rema’s role in bringing Afrobeats to the global stage is undeniable. “Calm Down” didn’t just chart; it reshaped perceptions, proving Afrobeats could lead pop culture. His performances at the Ballon d’Or, NBA All-Star Game, and beyond have spotlighted Nigerian culture, paving the way for others. As he told Dazed, he carries Africa with him, ensuring Afrobeats’ heartbeat echoes worldwide.

Conclusion

Rema’s journey from Benin City to global stardom is a tale of talent, innovation, and resilience. With hits like “Dumebi” and the Selena Gomez-assisted “Calm Down,” he’s shattered records and elevated Afrobeats to new heights. His “HEIS World Tour 2025” promises to cement his legacy as a trailblazer. At 24, Rema’s impact—bridging cultures and inspiring young artists—is already monumental, with a future as bright as his sound is bold. Don’t miss the chance to witness history—grab tickets to the tour. Who is Rema? A star. What’s his influence? Limitless. Where’s he headed? Everywhere.

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Tyler Reid

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