Nigerian sensation Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, once again showcased his musical prowess on with a captivating performance of his smash hit ‘Calm Down’ at this year’s BRIT Awards.
Rema’s electrifying performance marks him as the second Nigerian artist to grace the BRIT Awards stage, following Burna Boy’s memorable performance in 2018. While Burna Boy and Asake were nominated in the star-studded ‘International Artist of the Year’ category, Rema’s track “Calm Down” earns a nomination for the prestigious International Song of the Year alongside esteemed artists like Libianaca, Tyla, Miley Cyrus, Olivia Rodrigo, and SZA.
Rema has soared to global superstardom, mesmerising audiences with his hit singles and delivering stellar performances across the globe. His extensive touring in 2023 included visits to nearly twenty-five European countries and numerous states in the US, culminating in a sold-out headline show at The O2 Arena, his largest concert to date.
Notably, Rema made history as the first African artist to achieve a billion streams on Spotify, clinched the inaugural ‘Best Afrobeats’ award at the MTV VMAs, and holds the record as the longest-charting African artist in the Billboard Top 100. His achievements also secured him a coveted spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for his chart-topping success in the MENA region.
Rema’s anthem ‘Calm Down’ dominated airwaves in 2023, soaring to impressive heights on charts worldwide, including reaching No.4 on the UK’s Official Charts and No.5 on the Billboard Hot 100. The track achieved Gold, Diamond, and Platinum status multiple times across the globe, solidifying Rema’s position as a musical force to be reckoned with.
Born on May 1, 2000, Rema’s meteoric rise exemplifies his remarkable talent and drive at a remarkably young age.
During his performance at the BRIT Awards, Rema showcased his Nigerian heritage proudly, with energetic dancers notable of mention is Iziegbe (Izzy) Odigie , a New York born Nigerian afrobeats choreographer. was one of OkayAfrica’s “100 women”.
Additionally, Rema collaborated with American pop sensation Selena Gomez on a remix of “Calm Down,” which skyrocketed to the top of charts, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. The remix topped the Billboard US Afrobeats Songs and the Billboard Global Excl. US charts, and peaked at number three on the Global 200 chart. It also claimed the number one spot on the Canadian Hot 100 chart, further solidifying its status as a global phenomenon.
Rema’s accolades extend beyond his musical achievements, with a slew of prestigious awards recognizing his talent and impact in the industry.
From winning the coveted NEXT RATED award at THE HEADIES in 2019 to being named ARTIST OF THE YEAR at AFRIMMA in 2023, Rema’s accolades underscore his status as one of Africa’s brightest musical talents.
Here are some of the awards Rema has won in his career.
1 . Next Rated at The Headies in 2019
2.Revelation of the Year at the City People Music Awards in 2019
3.The Future Awards Africa In 2020
4.Digital Artist of the Year at Soundcity Mvp Awards in 2023
5.Best Male Artist at the Headies in 2023
6.African Artist of the Year at the Headies in 2023
7.Digital Artist of the Year at The Headies in 2023
8.Best Afrobeats with Calm Down Remix Ft Selena Gomez at MTV Video Music Awards in 2023
9.Crossing Boundaries With Music Awards at AFRIMMA in 2023
10.Artist of the Year at AFRIMMA in 2023
11.Song of the Year at Trace Awards in 2023
12.Best Global African Artist at the Trace Award in 2023