Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Divine Ikubor, widely known as Rema, has been recognized on the 2025 TIME100 Next list, which celebrates the world’s most influential emerging leaders across industries including music, film, sports, science, politics, and philanthropy.
Rema stands out as the only African artist featured this year, with his profile penned by legendary musician Angélique Kidjo.
“The young Nigerian superstar has accomplished so much: ‘Calm Down’ has joined the billion-streams club twice over,” Kidjo highlighted.
She further praised Rema’s impact on global music, saying, “Rema is the embodiment of the international success of Afrobeats. Thanks to artists like him, African music is at the forefront of global culture.”
Joining Rema on the prestigious TIME100 Next list are global music stars including Teyana Taylor and GloRilla, alongside other rising leaders shaping the future of entertainment and culture worldwide.
With this recognition, Rema continues to solidify his position as one of Africa’s top musical exports, further elevating Afrobeats on the global stage.