Rema has always been a shape-shifter. From the eerie, incantatory cadences of Dumebi to the jagged, hyper-romantic confessions on Calm Down, his voice has consistently served as both weapon and shield—a tool for seduction, for deflection, for warping the fabric of Afropop and Afro-fusion. With Is It a Crime, his latest offering, he turns his focus inward, crafting a song that interrogates the obsessive, intoxicating aspects of desire.
The song opens with a sultry loop, immediately drawing listeners into its dreamy soundscape. Rema’s heartfelt delivery, combined with the track’s laid-back tempo and evocative instrumentals, creates an atmosphere that’s both fresh and timeless. The use of the Yoruba phrase “sunmọ mi,” meaning “come closer to me,” adds a layer of intimacy, making it a perfect addition to any romantic playlist.
The production, handled by by P.Priime, samples Sade’s 1985 classic “Is It a Crime,” seamlessly merging the soulful essence of the original with Rema’s signature smooth vocals and rhythmic beats.
Since its release, “Baby (Is It a Crime)” has garnered widespread acclaim, with fans praising Rema’s ability to pay homage to a classic while infusing it with his unique style. The accompanying music video further enhances the track’s appeal, showcasing Rema’s artistic vision and solidifying his place as one of Nigeria’s most prolific hitmakers.
In “Baby (Is It a Crime),” Rema delivers a chill, cool, swagger-laden performance, singing in his native Nigerian dialect. The chorus, “Baby, baby sunmọ mi / You know say you match my steeze / You know I’m a G,” is particularly catchy. Throughout the song, Rema drops ear-catching verses filled with sensual references, such as “Baby, go down low, nobody gats to know / Oya, I know I play around, but me no fit to let you go.”
Overall, “Baby (Is It a Crime)” is a testament to Rema’s evolving artistry and his ability to blend different musical influences into a cohesive and captivating sound. As he continues to push the boundaries of Afro-fusion, fans can look forward to more innovative tracks that showcase his unique talent.
For those who haven’t experienced it yet, the official music video is available on YouTube: