Nigerian superstars keep showing the world that Afrobeats is here to stay. Rema’s latest release, “Baby (Is It a Crime) has got everyone talking, making history on Spotify within hours of its debut. From Dumebi, to Beamer, to Benin Baby Boys, the superstar has maintained a streak of hits with his first singles of the year.
In just 24 hours, “Baby (Is It a Crime)” pulled in a jaw-dropping 2.15 million streams on Spotify. That’s the second-biggest opening day for any African song on the platform. And that’s not where the flex ends, 72 hours later, the song had already crossed 3.4 million streams. It also debuted at #94 on the Global Spotify Top Songs Chart, proving its appeal beyond Nigeria. Over on Apple Music, it debuted among the top 100, making waves in multiple countries, climbing the Afrobeats and R&B charts.
“Baby (Is It a Crime)” is no doubt a banger. First off, it’s a smooth blend of Afrobeats and R&B, with that futuristic Rema twist that keeps us hooked. It also samples Sade’s classic, “Is It a Crime?” This is the type of genius move that gets both Gen Z and their aunties vibing. The mix of nostalgia and fresh sound makes this track impossible to ignore. Producer London and Andre Vibez cooked up a beat that feels both dreamy and cinematic, adding to the song’s replay value. Lyrically, “Baby (Is It a Crime)” captures themes of love, longing, and emotional vulnerability. And for those who often complain of Rema rushing through lines, the lines are more straightforward and easy to sing along this time. It’s the perfect song to vibe along with your loved ones.
Beyond this latest milestone, Rema has consistently demonstrated his ability to break records and expand the reach of Afrobeats. His breakout hit, “Calm Down,” featuring Selena Gomez, became the most-streamed Afrobeats song of all time. It’s another international chart topper that earned him multiple platinum certifications. Rema has also performed on some of the world’s biggest stages. From the O2 Arena in London to Coachella, the superstar has established himself as an international force in the music industry.
So what’s next for Rema? Word on the street is that this track might be leading up to a new album. There are also whispers about a major international collaboration in the works. This is due to his recent links with A-list artists in the U.S. If “Baby (Is It a Crime)” is any indication, we’re in for an even crazier ride. Stay tuned, because this star is just getting started.