Nigerian Afrobeats singer Divine Ikubor, known professionally as Rema, has been included in the 2025 TIME100 Next list, an annual compilation of the world’s most influential emerging leaders and entertainers. The list, published on Tuesday, features individuals from various fields, including entertainment, sports, science, politics, and philanthropy.
Rema is the sole African artist to be recognized this year. His profile was written by renowned musician Angélique Kidjo, who highlighted his achievements, including the success of his song “Calm Down,” which has reached the billion-streams club twice. Kidjo noted that Rema’s international success is a testament to the growing global influence of Afrobeats, with African music increasingly at the forefront of global culture.
The TIME100 Next list also includes other notable figures in the music industry, such as Teyana Taylor and GloRilla. The selection of these individuals reflects their significant impact on their respective fields and their potential to shape the future of their industries.
The inclusion of Rema in the TIME100 Next list is a notable recognition of his contribution to the global music scene. As a leading figure in the Afrobeats genre, Rema has helped to popularize African music worldwide, paving the way for other African artists to gain international recognition.
The TIME100 Next list is an annual publication that aims to highlight the achievements of emerging leaders and entertainers who are making a significant impact in their fields. The list is compiled by TIME magazine and is based on the contributions and influence of the individuals selected. The recognition of Rema and other emerging leaders is a testament to their hard work and dedication to their craft, and is likely to further boost their profiles and careers.
The growing international recognition of Afrobeats and African music as a whole is a significant development in the global music industry. With artists like Rema leading the charge, African music is increasingly being recognized as a major force in global culture, with the potential to inspire and influence new generations of music fans and artists.
