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Tag: Rema

  • Why I prefer stylish women to rich ones – Rema

    Why I prefer stylish women to rich ones – Rema

    Afrobeats star Rema has revealed his preference for a stylish partner over a wealthy one.

    In a recent interview, the 25-year-old singer stated that since he already has financial stability, a woman’s fashion sense is more important to him.

    When asked whether he would choose a woman with style or funds, Rema replied, “I already got the funds, so style.”

    Read Also: Tinubu salutes Rema, Burna Boy, others as Nigeria shines at 9th AFRIMA

    Rema, born Divine Ikubor, is a singer, songwriter, and gained recognition with his 2019 song ‘Dumebi’. 

    Born in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, Rema’s music blends Afrobeat, trap, and pop, setting him apart in the Nigerian music scene.

  • Tinubu salutes Rema, Burna Boy, others as Nigeria shines at 9th AFRIMA

    Tinubu salutes Rema, Burna Boy, others as Nigeria shines at 9th AFRIMA

    …hails artistes’ wins as proof of creative strength

    …commends Lagos for world-class hosting

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Nigerian artistes who emerged winners at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), describing their triumphs as fresh evidence of the growing strength and global relevance of Nigeria’s music and creative ecosystem.

    In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Thursday, the President praised the artistes for projecting Nigeria positively on a continental stage, saying their success underscored the creativity, resilience, and global appeal of Nigerian youths and the country’s expanding influence in African and world music.

    Nigeria recorded a strong showing at the 9th AFRIMA, held in Lagos from January 7 to 11, 2026.

    Lagos was designated the official host city by the African Union Commission in April 2025.

    At the awards ceremony, Rema clinched Artiste of the Year, Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, and Best African R&B and Soul, while Burna Boy won Album of the Year.

    Shallipopi emerged winner of Song of the Year and Best African Collaboration alongside Burna Boy.

    Phyno was named Best African Hip-Hop, Qing Madi won Most Promising Artiste, while Yemi Alade took the Best Soundtrack award.

    Chella won African Fans’ Favourite, while industry veterans Kenny Ogungbe and Dayo Adeneye received the AFRIMA Legendary Award.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s opponents ‘confused’ ahead of 2027 elections, says APC chieftain

    According to President Tinubu, the achievements reflected years of hard work, consistency, and talent, noting that Nigerian music had become a powerful voice for the country across Africa and beyond.

    “I warmly congratulate our outstanding Nigerian artistes for their remarkable achievements at the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards. Your success on this great continental stage is a proud moment for our nation and a strong reflection of the depth of talent, creativity, and hard work that define Nigeria’s music industry.

    “You have not only won awards; you have projected our culture, amplified the voice of our youths and strengthened Nigeria’s creative identity across the continent and beyond,” the President said.

    The President also congratulated Lagos State as the official host city of the event, commending the state government for delivering a successful and world-class ceremony.

    “I commend Lagos State for once again proving its capacity as Africa’s creative and entertainment capital. I congratulate the Lagos State Government and His Excellency, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for the excellent hosting of Africa’s global music awards,” he said.

    President Tinubu, who was honoured in 2015 with the Pillar of Art and Culture in Africa Award by the African Union Commission and AFRIMA’s international committee, assured that his administration would continue to prioritise youth empowerment and the development of the creative economy.

    Founded in 2014 by the International Committee of All Africa Music Awards in partnership with the African Union Commission, AFRIMA is regarded as Africa’s biggest music awards platform.

    The 9th edition featured over 1,216 artistes, delegates, and industry stakeholders from at least 48 African countries.

    The Lagos celebration opened with a welcome soiree on January 7, followed by the Africa Music Business Summit and the AFRIMA Music Village, before culminating in a sold-out grand finale at the Eko Convention Centre, where winners received the 23.9-carat gold-plated AFRIMA trophy.

  • FULL LIST: Burna Boy, Rema, others emerge winners at AFRIMA 2026

    FULL LIST: Burna Boy, Rema, others emerge winners at AFRIMA 2026

    The 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) 2026 witnessed a stellar performance by music sensation Rema, who walked away with three prestigious awards.

    The 24-year-old artiste won Best Male Artiste in Western Africa, Artiste of the Year and Best African Artiste, Duo or Group in African RnB/Soul for “Calm Down”.

    Burna Boy, one of Nigeria’s most prominent music stars, took home the Album of the Year award for “No Sign of Weakness”.

    Yemi Alade, a renowned singer, songwriter, won Best Soundtrack in a Movie, Series or Documentary for “You Are” from “Iyanu: The Animated Series”.

    Fast-rising artiste Shallipopi made a notable impact, winning Song of the Year for “Laho” and Best African Collaboration alongside Burna Boy.

    Phyno, a prominent rapper, won Best African Artiste in African Hip-Hop.

    The awards ceremony, held at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, brought together notable African artistes, showcasing the continent’s rich musical diversity and cultural heritage.

    Other winners at the event included Tanzanian singer Jux, who won Best Male Artiste in Eastern Africa, and Cindy Le Coeur of the Democratic Republic of Congo, who won Best Female Artiste in Central Africa.

    AFRIMA 2026 showcased African musical diversity and cultural heritage, with Lagos hosting the awards for the third time, following previous editions in Ghana and Senegal.

    Below is the full list of winners:

    Best Male Artist in Central Africa

    • C4 Pedro (Angola)
    • Eboloko (Gabon)
    • Gims (DRC)
    • Gerilson Insrael (Angola)
    • Kocee (Cameroon)
    • L’Oiseau Rare (Gabon)
    • Fally Ipupa (DRC)
    • Magasco (Cameroon)
    • Singuila (The Congo) – Winner
    • Werrason (DRC)

    Best Female Artiste in Central Africa
    • Anna Joyce (Angola)
    • Blanche Bailly (Cameroon)
    • Charlotte Dipanda (Cameroon)
    • Cindy Le Coeur (DRC) – Winner
    • Deborah Lukalu (DRC)
    • Emma’a (Gabon)
    • Jessy B (The Congo)
    • Krys M (Cameroon)
    • Liriany (Angola)
    • Rebo (DRC)

    Best Male Artiste in Eastern Africa
    • Bien (Kenya)
    • Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
    • Element Eleéh (Rwanda)
    • Joshua Baraka (Uganda)
    • Jux (Tanzania) – Winner
    • Marioo (Tanzania)
    • Mbosso (Tanzania)
    • Bruce Melodie (Rwanda)
    • Sat-B (Burundi)
    • Yared Negu (Ethiopia)

    Best Female Artiste in Eastern Africa
    • Abigail Chams (Tanzania)
    • Bridget Blue (Kenya)
    • Denise (Madagascar) – winner
    • Haleluya Tekletsadik (Ethiopia)
    • Lady Jaydee (Tanzania)
    • Mahlet Wendimu (Ethiopia)
    • Salemia (Ethiopia)
    • Weeha (Ethiopia)
    • Winnie Nwagi (Uganda)
    • Zuchu (Tanzania)

    Best Male Artiste in Northern Africa
    • A.L.A. (Tunisia)
    • Adviser (Mauritania)
    • Amr Diab (Egypt)
    • Cheb Momo (Algeria)
    • El Grande Toto (Morocco)
    • Hamza Namira (Egypt)
    • Lbenj (Morocco)
    • Mohamed Ramadan (Egypt)
    • Stormy (Morocco)
    • Wegz (Egypt)

    Best Female Artiste in Northern Africa
    • Chirine Lajmi (Tunisia)
    • Inez (Morocco)
    • Jannat (Egypt)
    • Jaylann (Morocco)
    • Manal (Morocco)
    • Meryem Aboulouafa (Morocco)
    • Sherine (Egypt) – Winner
    • Zina Daoudia (Morocco)

    Best Male Artiste in Southern Africa
    • Anderson Mário (Mozambique)
    • Jah Prayzah (Zimbabwe)
    • Manana (Eswatini)
    • Nasty C (South Africa)
    • Teddy Makadi (Malawi)
    • Tyler ICU (South Africa)
    • Wanitwamos (South Africa)
    • Yo Maps (Zambia) – Winner
    • Zeze Kingston (Malawi)
    • Kazba De Small (South Africa)

    Best Female Artiste in Southern Africa
    • Babalwa M (South Africa)
    • Hanna (Zimbabwe)
    • Makhadzi (South Africa)
    • Nkosazana Daughter (South Africa)
    • Nontokozo Mkhize (South Africa) – Winner
    • Sha Sha (Zimbabwe)
    • Temwah (Malawi)
    • Tyla (South Africa)
    • Uncle Waffles (Eswatini)
    • Zee Nxumalo (South Africa)

    Best Male Artiste in Western Africa
    • Asake (Nigeria)
    • Axel Merryl (Benin)
    • Black Sherif (Ghana)
    • Burna Boy (Nigeria)
    • Davido (Nigeria)
    • Didi B (Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Djodje (Cape Verde)
    • Rema (Nigeria) – Winner
    • VJ (Senegal)
    • Wizkid (Nigeria)

    Best Female Artiste in Western Africa
    • Amaarae (Ghana)
    • Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
    • Djelykaba Bintou (Guinea)
    • Josey (Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Mariam Ba Lagaré (Mali)
    • Mia Guissé (Senegal)
    • Moliy (Ghana)
    • Tiwa Savage (Nigeria)
    • Viviane Chidid (Senegal)
    • Wendy Shay (Ghana) – Winner

    CONTINENTAL CATEGORY

    Best Male Artiste in African Inspirational Music
    • Christian Mukuna (DRC)
    • Djunny Beatz (Mozambique)
    • Gaise Baba (Nigeria)
    • Israel Mbonyi (Rwanda)
    • Jah Prayzah (Zimbabwe)
    • Joel Lwaga (Tanzania)
    • Kocee (Cameroon)
    • Lawrence Oyor (Nigeria)
    • Milo (Côte d’Ivoire) – Winner
    • Sjava (South Africa)

    Best Female Artiste in African Inspirational Music
    • Ada Ehi (Nigeria)
    • Choisie Basolua (DRC)
    • Krys M (Cameroon)
    • Martha Mwaipaja (Tanzania)
    • Mercy Chinwo (Nigeria)
    • Morijah (Côte d’Ivoire) – Winner
    • Nontokozo Mkhize (South Africa)
    • Roseline Layo (Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Vestine & Dorcas (Rwanda)

    Best African Artiste, Duo or Group in African Jazz
    • Adrian Younge & Ali Shaheed Muhammad (Ghana)
    • Haddinqo (Ethiopia) – Winner
    • Mádé Kuti (Nigeria)
    • Rorisang Sechele (South Africa)
    • Sibusiso Mash Mashiloane (South Africa)
    • The Cavemen (Nigeria)
    • Alune Wade (Senegal)
    • Nomfundo Xaluva (South Africa)
    • Kyle Shepherd Trio (South Africa)

    Best Artiste, Duo or Group in African Contemporary
    • Fireboy DML (Nigeria)
    • Axel Merryl (Benin) – Winner
    • Espe Bass (Congo B)
    • Bien (Kenya)
    • Jaylann (Morocco)
    • Kizz Daniel, Angélique Kidjo & Johnny Drille (Nigeria)
    • Mbosso (Tanzania)
    • Ferre Gola & Rayvanny (DRC)
    • Didine Canon 16 (Algeria)
    • Wendy Shay (Ghana)

    Best Soundtrack in Movie, Series, or Documentary
    • Igho’le Trap Mix Version (“To Kill a Monkey”: Series) – Oscar Heman-Ackah (Ghana)
    • El Ma2as (“The Start”: Film) – Tamer Hosny, Reda Elbahrawy (Egypt)
    • You Are (“Iyanu”: The Animated Series) – Yemi Alade (Nigeria) – Winner
    • Timpi Tampa (“Timpi Tampa”: The Film) – Ismaël Lo (Senegal)
    • Tori Ife (“Seven Doors”: Series) – Tolu Obanro (Nigeria)
    • Saatte Ragouj (“The Last of the Mohicans” Film) – Kafon (Tunisia)

    Songwriter of the Year
    • Bakhaw Dioum – “Choix” (Mia Guissé ft. Wally B. Seck) (Senegal) – Winner
    • Emel, Jehanny Beth & Camille Berthomier – “Fall in the Light” (Tunisia)
    • Emma’a – “Trop d’amour” (Gabon)
    • Emmanuel Ayobami Alli-Hakeem – “Za” (Anendlessocean) (Nigeria)
    • Ferre Gola – “Amour Illusoire” (DRC)
    • Mohammed Ismail Sharrif – “Rebel Music” (Black Sherif) (Ghana)
    • Mugisha Fred Robinson – “Tombé” (Element Eleéh) (Rwanda)
    • Olamide Adedeji – “Hassibunallah” (Olamide) (Nigeria)
    • Prince Omoferi & Nwamu Francis Chukwudubem – “It Hurts” (Johnny Drille & Don Jazzy) (Nigeria)
    • Victor Ngatuvese Kaune – “Oputuri ‘Queens’” (One Blood Namibia) (Namibia)

    African Fans’ Favourite
    • Ali Jita (Nigeria)
    • Barnaba (Tanzania)
    • BNXN & Rema (Nigeria)
    • Chella (Nigeria) – Winner
    • Dlala Thukzin (South Africa)
    • Innoss’b (DRC)
    • Kizz Daniel (Nigeria)
    • Parazar (Algeria)
    • Faceless (Nigeria)
    • Tul8te (Egypt)

    Best African DJ
    • DJ Malvado (Angola)
    • DJ Maphorisa (South Africa)
    • DJ Moh Green (Algeria) – Winner
    • DJ Mombochi (The Congo)
    • DJ Tunez (Nigeria)
    • DJ YK Mule (Nigeria)
    • Kelvin Momo (South Africa)
    • Oscar Mbo (South Africa)
    • Uncle Waffles (Eswatini)
    • Woodblock Djs (South Africa)

    Producer of the Year
    • Beneth Seraphin Akatché Koffi (Senegal)
    • Butternut, Xolani Majoz (South Africa)
    • Dina One (Mali)
    • Element Eleéh & Mugisha Fred Robinson (Rwanda) – Winners
    • Jazzworx (South Africa)
    • Progrex (Nigeria)
    • DaVinci (Angola)
    • Tempoe (Nigeria)
    • Themba Sekowe, Gomolemo Joy Gumede, Kabelo Motha (South Africa)

    Album of the Year
    • Ebtadena – Amr Diab (Egypt)
    • No Sign of Weakness – Burna Boy (Nigeria) – Winner
    • 5ive – Davido (Nigeria)
    • Diyilem & Bazarhoff: Genius – Didi B (Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Ngomoya – DJ Maphorisa & XDuppy (South Africa)
    • Salgoat – El Grande Toto (Morocco)
    • Big Aka 4 Aka Kai – Himra (Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Thato Ya Modimo – Kelvin Momo (South Africa)
    • Idrache (Traces of the Past) – Tinariwen (Mali)

    Best African Video of the Year
    • “Rebel” – Black Sherif (Ghana)
    • “Meta” – Nomcebo Zikode & Sofiya Nzau (South Africa)
    • “Ki Lo Wa Wa” – Yemi Alade (Nigeria)
    • “Timpi Tampa” – Ismaël Lo (Senegal)
    • “Tori Ife” – Tolu Obanro (Nigeria)
    • “Ova” – Mbosso (Tanzania) – Winner
    • “Ololufe” – Juma Jux & Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
    • “Shaolin” – Seyi Vibez (Nigeria)
    • “Stk Stk” – Dizzy Dros, Kekra & Norfafrica (Morocco)

    Song of the Year
    • “Isaka (6AM)” – Ciza, Jazzworx & Thukuthela (South Africa)
    • “Bengicela” – Mawhoo Gl Ceejay & Thukuthela (South Africa)
    • “Choix” – Mia Guissé (Senegal)
    • “Diplomatico” – El Grande Toto (Morocco)
    • “Kaay Waay” – VJ (Senegal)
    • “Laho” – Shallipopi (Nigeria) – Winner
    • “Ololufe Mi” – Jux & Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)
    • “Push 2 Start” – Tyla (South Africa)
    • “Shake it to the Max” – Moliy, Shenseea, Skillibeng & Silent Addy (Ghana)
    • “With You” – Davido (Nigeria)

    Best African Dance/Choreography
    • Jaylann – “Ha Wlidi” (Morocco)
    • Lady Ponce – “Je veux danser” (Cameroon)
    • Rebo – “Mobambo” (DRC)
    • Serge Beynaud – “Taper Dedans” (Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Toofan – “Deodorant” (Togo)
    • Tyla – “Push 2 Start” (South Africa)
    • Uncle Waffles & Royal Musiq – “Zenzele” (Eswatini)
    • Weeha – “Dimama” (Ethiopia) – Winner
    • Werrason – “Tout se paie ici bas” (DRC)
    • Wizkid – “Kese” (Nigeria)

    Best African Act Reggae, Ragga & Dancehall
    • Magasco – “Dirty Whine” (Cameroon)
    • Moliy, Shenseea, Skillibeng & Silent Addy – “Shake it to the Max” (Ghana)
    • Ruger & Kranium – “Dudu” (Nigeria)
    • Sean Morgan – “Vuu” (Malawi)
    • Black Sherif – “Rebel Music” (Ghana)
    • Takana Zion – “On My Eyes” (Guinea) – Winner
    • Tiwa Savage – “Forgiveness” (Nigeria)
    • Wakadinli – “Kum Baba” (Kenya)
    • Yemi Alade – “Baddie” (Nigeria)
    • Iyani, Mwanaa & Cedo – “Kifo cha Mende” (Kenya)

    Best African Collaboration
    • Blanche Bailly & Lady Ponce – “Lève toi” (Cameroon)
    • Goon Flavour, Master Kg & Eemoh – “Ngishutheni” (South Africa)
    • Mia Guissé ft. Wally Seck – “Choix” (Senegal)
    • Moliy, Silent Addy, Skillibeng & Shenseea – “Shake It to the Max” (Ghana)
    • Paki Chenzu ft. Himra – “Assaut” (Togo/Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Shallipopi ft. Burna Boy – “Laho” (Nigeria) – Winner
    • Uncle Waffles ft. Cowboii, Royal Musiq, Uncool MC & Xduppy – “Zenzele” (Eswatini)
    • Davido ft. Omah Lay – “With You” (Nigeria)
    • Mawhoo, GL Ceejay & Thukuthela ft. Jazzworx – “Bengicela” (South Africa)
    • Benny Adam & Khadija El Warzazia – “Mok Ya Mok” (Morocco)

    Read Also: Eni, Claudia host AFRIMA Red Carpet as Tosyn, Ariane Lead Fashion Watch

    Most Promising Artiste of the Year
    • Cysoul (Cameroon)
    • Joshua Baraka (Uganda)
    • King Luca (Cameroon)
    • L’Oiseau Rare (Gabon)
    • Lwah Ndlunkulu (South Africa)
    • Massamba Amadeus (Senegal)
    • Qing Madi, Valorant (Nigeria) – Winner
    • Rym (Morocco)
    • Kunmie (Nigeria)
    • Fola (Nigeria)

    Artiste of the Year
    • Amr Diab (Egypt)
    • Ayra Starr (Nigeria)
    • Burna Boy (Nigeria)
    • Davido (Nigeria)
    • DJ Maphorisa (South Africa)
    • El Grande Toto (Morocco)
    • Fally Ipupa (DRC)
    • Jux (Tanzania)
    • Rema (Nigeria) – Winner
    • Shallipopi (Nigeria)
    • Tyla (South Africa)

    Breakout Artiste of the Year
    • Blaq Major (South Africa)
    • Ciza (South Africa) – Winner
    • Eboloko (Gabon)
    • Himra (Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Marioo (Tanzania)
    • Mawhoo (South Africa)
    • Moliy (Ghana)
    • Shallipopi (Nigeria)
    • Trap King (Algeria)
    • VJ (Senegal)

    Best African Lyricist Rapper
    • ALA (Tunisia)
    • Didi B (Côte d’Ivoire) – Winner
    • Jessy B (Congo B)
    • Klassafan le Melangeur (Guinea)
    • Nasty C & Usimamane (South Africa)
    • Nyashinski (Kenya)
    • Reminisce (Nigeria)
    • Sarkodie (Ghana)
    • Switch (Libya)
    • Yacou B OG (Mali)

    Best African Artiste, Duo or Group in African Hiphop
    • ALA ft. Mootjeyek (Tunisia)
    • Cassper Nyovest (South Africa)
    • Eboloko (Gabon)
    • El Grande Toto (Morocco)
    • Himra (Côte d’Ivoire)
    • Phyno (Nigeria) – Winner
    • Nasty C & Usimamane (South Africa)
    • Odumodublvck (Nigeria)
    • Sarkodie (Ghana)
    • Suspect 95 (Côte d’Ivoire)

    Best African Artiste, Duo or Group in African RnB & Soul
    • Bensoul & V- Be (Kenya)
    • Big Zulu ft. Malungelo (South Africa)
    • Braye (Nigeria)
    • Calema (Sao Tome)
    • Emma’a (Gabon)
    • Kunmie (Nigeria)
    • Manal (Morocco)
    • Naledi Aphiwe & Mawelele (South Africa)
    • Rema (Nigeria) – Winner
    • Wegz ft. Tayc (Egypt)

    Best African Duo, Group or Band
    • Babylone (Algeria)
    • Blaq Diamond (South Africa)
    • Celema (Sao Tome & Principe)
    • Team Paiya (Côte d’Ivoire) – Winner
    • The Cavemen (Nigeria)
    • Tinariwen (Mali)
    • Toofan (Togo)
    • Vestine & Dorcas (Rwanda)
    • Wapendwa Muziki (Kenya)
    • We Are Nubia (Kenya)

  • ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR: REMA

    ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR: REMA

    For the second year in a row, Divine Ikubor, also known as Rema, again registered his imprint as the biggest news in pop culture. His musical feats, laurels, and exploits, for 2025 cemented his potential as the poster boy of Afrobeats. Born into the home of slain chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State and former General Manager of Ethiope Publishing Company, Mr. Justice Ikubor, on May 1, 2000, Rema had an impactful second year in a row in 2025 and stands tall as Entertainer of the Year with historical feats.

    Now 25-year-old, the pop star’s sophomore album, “HEIS,” has continued to garner not only attention but global accolades. According to Angelique Kidjo, Rema is the embodiment of the international success of Afrobeats and thanks to artists like him, African music is at the forefront of global culture.

    His 2023 monster hit, ‘Calm Down,’ off his 2022 album ‘Raves & Roses’ has continued to amass millions of views in 2025. In fact, the song has joined the billion streams club twice over.

    Rema began his year by copping two major awards, Album of the Year for his hit album ‘HEIS’ and Best Male Artist at the 2025 Trace Awards in February 2025.

    Read Also: Tinubu moves to review university staff pay, condition of service

    In April 2025 at the 17th Headies awards, Rema won two awards, Afrobeats Album of the Year for his album ‘HEIS’ and Producer of the Year for his song ‘Ozeba.’

    In the third quarter of the year, Rema’s hit single in 2025, ‘Baby,’ claimed the number one spot as the most exported Nigerian song of 2025. The list showcases the incredible range and global appeal of Nigerian music as well as Rema’s dominance on international audiences.

    By September 2025, he had emerged one of the world’s most influential rising stars as he was featured in the 2025 TIME100 Next list.

    The list which celebrates the world’s most influential rising stars across music, film, sports, politics, science, and philanthropy also featured football prodigy Lamine Yamal.

    The feat by Rema as the only Nigerian artiste featured on the list was further reinforced with his increased streaming numbers. His music accumulates an average of about 3.7 million streams per day on Spotify. In 2025 alone, the young Nigerian music star surpassed 800 million streams on Spotify, a leading music streaming platform.

    Research showed that as of 2025, Rema has surpassed 12 billion total career streams globally and 5.5 billion total Spotify streams as of late 2025. His Spotify numbers include over 5.45 billion total streams for all his tracks. He possesses 4.24 billion streams as the lead artist across 71 tracks, and approximately 1.21 billion streams from 55 tracks, which he featured on.

    In 2025, Rema decided to spoil himself and lavish funds on the acquisition of luxury automobiles valued at N1 billion, in total. The music star made headlines after acquiring two luxury vehicles – a Mercedes Benz G63, valued at N600 million, and a Lamborghini Urus, estimated at N400 million.

    Rema first rose to fame with his 2019 hit single Dumebi, released under D’Prince’s Jonzing World label.

    He is signed to Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Mavin Records owned by music executive Don Jazzy. His self-titled debut EP, ‘Rema,’ was released in 2019 and topped Apple Music’s Nigerian charts. The music video for “Dumebi” has over 81 million views on YouTube.

  • Rema becomes first African artist on 2025 TIME100 Next list

    Rema becomes first African artist on 2025 TIME100 Next list

    Afrobeats star Rema has made history as the only African artist featured on the prestigious 2025 TIME100 Next list, which celebrates the world’s most influential rising stars.

    His inclusion underscores his global impact on the music scene, with his chart-topping hit ‘Calm Down’ surpassing a billion streams twice.

    Rema’s profile for the list was penned by Grammy-winning legend Angélique Kidjo, who hailed his remarkable achievements.

    She highlighted how his success continues the legacy of African icons like Fela Kuti, Miriam Makeba, and Youssou N’Dour, who brought the continent’s sound to the global stage.

    READ ALSO: Nigeria @ 65: Wike hails Tinubu’s progress, urges Nigerians to embrace peace, unity

    “With the recent global explosion of African music, I needed to include some contemporary sounds. I fell in love with Rema’s “Calm Down.” It has a unique flow and feel, not mimicking Western pop; it is rooted in Africa but also catchy and virtuosic. I love to sing it.

    “The young Nigerian superstar has accomplished so much: “Calm Down” has joined the billion-stream club twice over. Rema has performed in stadiums. His latest album earned a Grammy nomination.

    “Rema is the embodiment of the international success of Afrobeats. Thanks to artists like him, African music is at the forefront of global culture”.

    This achievement not only solidifies Rema’s position as a trailblazer in Afrobeats but also cements his status as a leading figure in global music.

    By joining the ranks of other global music powerhouses like Teyana Taylor and GloRilla on the list, Rema is paving the way for other African artists to gain international recognition.

  • Nigerian artistes dominate UK Afrobeats chart top

    Nigerian artistes dominate UK Afrobeats chart top

    With budding music talents making bold entries and veterans proving their staying power, the Afrobeats scene continues to dominate UK playlists.

    As revealed by the Official Charts Company, African sounds continue its remarkable run at the summit of the UK music list.

    Hot on his heels is Rema, whose latest single Fun makes an impressive debut at No. 2, instantly shaking up the leaderboard. Though Miami, a song by American singer Odeal, still maintained its No. 1 position for a ninth week.

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    Tyla’s Is It slips one spot to No. 3, despite having previously topped the chart, while Ayra Starr climbs to No. 4 with the sultry Hot Body, matching her highest position yet.

    Burna Boy remains steady at No. 5 with Love, as Tyla and Wizkid’s collaboration Dynamite holds close behind at No. 6. Young Jonn and Wizkid’s Cash Flow drops to No. 7 in its second week, while Fola scores a career-best with You leaping into the Top 10 at No. 8.

    Asake also enjoys a strong showing on two fronts: Badman Gangsta with Tiakola at No. 9, and his J Hus collaboration Gold , rounding out the Top 10 at No. 10, a track that previously claimed the top spot.

  • Rema rewards winners of ‘Kelebu’ dance challenge $10,000

    Rema rewards winners of ‘Kelebu’ dance challenge $10,000

    Afrobeats singer Rema has announced POP Boys as the winner of his ‘Kelebu’ dance challenge.

    The challenge, which was launched alongside the release of his new single “Kelebu” on July 26, 2025, offered a $10,000 cash prize for the best dance routine to the song.

    “$10K for whoever comes up with an EASY dance for KELEBU. out this Friday!” he shared on X (formerly Twitter).

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    POP Boys, a group of upcoming TikTok creators, impressed Rema with their unique style and energy, earning them the top spot.

    As a reward, POP Boys will not only receive the $10,000 cash prize but also feature in the official music video for “Kelebu” and have an opportunity to hop on a video call with Rema.

    “Come get your money. #kelebudancechallenge,” he wrote on Instagram.

    “Kelebu” is a fusion of different musical styles, incorporating influences from Dominica’s high-octane dance music, Makossa from Cameroon, and Coupé-décalé from Côte d’Ivoire.

  • Rema’s ’Rave & Roses’ hits three billion Spotify streams

    Rema’s ’Rave & Roses’ hits three billion Spotify streams

    Award-winning singer Rema’s debut album, “Rave & Roses (Ultra version)”, has made history by becoming the first African project to surpass three billion streams on Spotify.

    This achievement is largely attributed to the massive success of the album’s lead single, “Calm Down” (remix with Selena Gomez), which became the first African song to hit 1 billion streams on the platform.

    The combined versions of “Calm Down” contributed over 2 billion streams to the album’s total, while the remaining 20 tracks contributed less than 1 billion.

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    Rema’s record-breaking feat signifies the growing global influence of African music.

    Other notable African artists have also achieved significant milestones on Spotify, including Tyla, whose self-titled debut album has amassed over 2 billion streams.

    Burna Boy’s albums “African Giant” and “Love, Damini”, Wizkid’s “Made in Lagos: Deluxe Edition”, and CKay’s “CKay the First” have all surpassed 1 billion streams.

  • Rema’s ‘Baby’ tops Spotify’s Global Impact List in Nigeria for H1 2025

    Rema’s ‘Baby’ tops Spotify’s Global Impact List in Nigeria for H1 2025

    Spotify’s Global Impact List in Nigeria for the first half of 2025 has been released, featuring the country’s top 30 songs and tracks that have resonated with international audiences.

    Rema’s hit single “Baby” claims the number one spot as the most exported Nigerian song of 2025.

    In a statement by Spotify’s Head of Music, Sub-Saharan Africa, Phiona Okumu, on Monday said that this year’s Global Impact List showcases the incredible range and global appeal of Nigerian music.

    The list reflects the diversity and global appeal of Nigerian music, with Afrobeats dominating the chart.

    Notably, Lawrence Oyor’s gospel anthem “Favour” stands out as the only gospel track to secure a spot.

    Emerging artists Chella and Minz also made the list with their standout tracks “My Darling” and “Number One”, respectively.

    Female artists are also making waves globally, with Ayra Starr securing two spots on the list with “All The Love” and “Gimme Dat”, and Teni shining with her hit “Money”.

    Davido leads with an impressive nine entries, while Burna Boy follows closely with five.

    According to Okumu, their consistent global appeal and cross-generational resonance reaffirm their status as pillars of Nigerian music’s international success.

    Below is the list of top 30 Nigerian songs with global reach from January to June 2025:

    Rema – Baby (Is it a Crime)

    Shallipopi – Laho

    Davido & Omah Lay – With You

    Chella – My Darling

    Burna Boy & Travis Scott – TaTaTa

    Frenna & Shallipopi – ZAAZAA

    Coldplay, TWICE, Burna Boy, Elyanna, TINI & Little Simz – WE PRAY (TWICE Version)

    Burna Boy – Update

    Burna Boy & Shallipopi – Laho II

    Davido – Be There Still

    Ayra Starr & Wizkid – Gimme Dat

    Davido & Victoria Monét – Offa Me

    Davido & Chris Brown – Titanium

    Rema – Bout U

    ODUMODUBLVCK & Victony – PITY THIS BOY

    Ayra Starr – All The Love

    Lawrence Oyor – Favour

    Black Sherif & Fireboy DML – So it Goes

    Asake – WHY LOVE

    Beéle & Thisizlondon – si mañana me muero

    Adekunle Gold – Obimo

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    Davido, Tayc & Dadju – Lover Boy

    Davido, Shenseea & 450 – R&B

    Burna Boy – Sweet Love

    Tobias Rahim & Kabusa Oriental Choir – Regntid

    Teni – Money

    Davido – 10 Kilo

    Himra & Minz – NUMBER ONE

    Davido, Victony & Musa Keys – Holy Water

    Davido – Anything

  • Grammy Awards hail Afrobeats evolution, spotlight Wizkid, Burna Boy, Rema in top 10 songs list

    Grammy Awards hail Afrobeats evolution, spotlight Wizkid, Burna Boy, Rema in top 10 songs list

    The organisers of the Grammy Awards have acknowledged the growth and global influence of Afrobeats, highlighting artists like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Rema as key contributors to the genre’s rise since 2010.

    In a recent feature, the Recording Academy traced the evolution of Afrobeats from its mid-2010s breakthrough to its current global dominance, stating: “From its popularization in the mid-2010s to current global, chart-topping dominance by the likes of @wizkidayo, @burnaboy and @heisrema, the sound of Afrobeats is constantly shifting.”

    To celebrate the genre, the Academy released a list of the top ten Afrobeats songs of all time, blending timeless classics with modern chart-toppers. Songs featured include:

    African Queen by 2Baba (2004)

    Do Me by P-Square (2007)

    Bumper 2 Bumper by Wande Coal (2009)

    Pon Pon Pon by Dagrin (2009)

    Azonto by Fuse ODG ft. Tiffany Owusu (2014)

    Ojuelegba by Wizkid (2014)

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    Mad Over You by Runtown (2016)

    Maradona by Niniola (2017)

    Sungba by Asake (2022)

    Ozeba by Rema (2024)

    While some fans praised the recognition of Afrobeats’ pioneers and current stars, others questioned the criteria used for the selection.

    Some fans felt that notable artists like Davido were unfairly left out.