On a Saturday afternoon in Soho, a collection of art kids are caught up in what you might call the Rema whirlwind. The Nigerian artist is making an appearance at a pop-up for London brand Places + Faces to promote a recent clothing collaboration. Never mind the gawking crowd; it’s hard to miss his star quality: the glistening jewellery, cowrie shells in his hair and immaculately manicured nails are a dead giveaway.
Divine Ikubor, 22, is a shining star in the new school of afrobeats. He first broke out in 2019 with the frenetic, cheerful single Dumebi. Earlier this year, he released his debut album, Rave & Roses, which featured guest spots from AJ Tracey and 6lack. He has, quite accurately, named his sound and performance style Afro-rave: there’s a focus on strings, violin and bassline, and live he is often accompanied by his mascot, a large teddy bear.
