Rema Becomes Only African Artiste on 2025 TIME100 Next List

Nigerian Afrobeats singer Divine Ikubor, known as Rema, has earned a place on the 2025 TIME100 Next list, which highlights the world’s most influential rising stars in music, film, sports, science, politics, and philanthropy.

This year, Rema stands out as the only African artist on the list.

Grammy-winning musician Angélique Kidjo wrote his profile, praising his impact on global music.

She pointed to his hit track “Calm Down,” which has surpassed one billion streams twice, and called him a symbol of Afrobeats worldwide success.

Kidjo added that artistes like Rema are helping African music take centre stage in global culture.

The TIME100 Next list also features stars such as Teyana Taylor and GloRilla, recognising them as rising leaders in entertainment.

Rema’s inclusion marks a major milestone for African music and confirms his growing influence across the world.