Rema, the Nigerian singer-songwriter, continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his distinct blend of Afrobeat, trap, and alternative hip-hop music. Known for his innovative sound and eclectic fashion choices, Rema has once again pushed artistic boundaries in his latest music video, Baby (Is It A Crime). The visual masterpiece pays homage to Sade’s timeless classic, infusing it with his own sultry and modern twist, while simultaneously embracing a rich tapestry of ’90s aesthetics.

Beyond the music, the video stands as a testament to Rema’s artistic evolution, blending nostalgic elements with contemporary influences. His signature style—an amalgamation of high fashion, streetwear, and Nigerian cultural influences—takes center stage. The video is not just a musical experience but a visual feast, where Rema’s fearless approach to fashion cements his reputation as a trendsetter.

From carefully curated vintage pieces to avant-garde ensembles, Rema’s wardrobe in Baby (Is It A Crime) is nothing short of spectacular. Every look tells a story, reflecting his audacity in both music and style. The video is a love letter to the ’90s, infused with a modern Naija twist, capturing the essence of a bygone era while pushing it firmly into the future.

A Nostalgic Tribute to Sade: Reinventing a Classic

The foundation of Baby (Is It A Crime) rests on its homage to Sade, a legendary figure in soul and jazz music. Sade’s influence on global music transcends generations, and her 1980s and ’90s sound continues to inspire contemporary artists across genres. By revisiting one of her classics, Rema not only acknowledges her legacy but also reimagines it for a modern audience.

His interpretation of Sade’s timeless sound is sultry and mesmerizing, incorporating elements of Afrobeat, trap, and alternative hip-hop. The instrumentation is lush and evocative, weaving together smooth saxophone riffs with deep basslines, creating an atmosphere that feels simultaneously familiar and refreshingly new. Rema’s delivery is effortless, his voice gliding over the track with an almost hypnotic quality, capturing the essence of longing and desire.

Much like Sade’s music, Baby (Is It A Crime) evokes emotions that are deeply intimate yet universally understood. The song’s themes of love, passion, and uncertainty are underscored by Rema’s evocative storytelling, making it a track that resonates on multiple levels.

The Visual Aesthetic: A Love Letter to the ’90s

Visually, Baby (Is It A Crime) is drenched in nostalgia. The cinematography is rich with vintage aesthetics, from grainy film textures to moody lighting that captures the sultry, atmospheric feel of ’90s music videos. Every frame feels intentional, evoking the era of VHS tapes, Polaroid snapshots, and slow-burn R&B visuals.

The setting of the video oscillates between intimate indoor scenes and moody, urban landscapes, mirroring the emotional depth of the song. The art direction is meticulous, with deliberate nods to the past seen in the choice of color grading, set designs, and even camera angles. The use of soft lighting, hazy effects, and slightly desaturated tones transports the viewer to a world where time seems to stand still—a perfect homage to the romanticized aesthetics of the ’90s.

But despite its throwback elements, the video is not merely a replication of the past; it is a reinvention. Rema infuses it with his own signature style, ensuring that while it nods to history, it remains firmly rooted in the present. The fusion of Nigerian influences with Western nostalgia creates a unique visual language that is distinctly Rema.

Rema’s Fashion: A Bold Statement in Every Scene

A major highlight of the video is Rema’s impeccable styling. His ability to seamlessly merge vintage aesthetics with contemporary high fashion is on full display, showcasing a wardrobe that is as daring as it is stylish. His fashion choices reflect his fearless approach to self-expression, making the video a standout not just musically but also visually.

The Sp5der and Thought We Friends Ensemble

In one of the standout looks, Rema sports a bold Sp5der jacket, effortlessly paired with Thought We Friends pants. The ensemble is anchored by a vintage Vivienne Westwood belt, a nod to sustainability and timeless fashion. Accessories play a crucial role in elevating the outfit—vintage Dsquared2 gloves add an element of edge, while Timberland x Veneda Carter boots bring a rugged, street-ready feel.

To further enhance the look, Rema incorporates a Prada scarf and an Arc’teryx skullcap, blending high fashion with urban influences. The finishing touches come in the form of Vintage Frames Company glasses and a Starchain Worldwide wallet chain, proving that every detail of his wardrobe is meticulously curated.

The Guess USA Jacket and Zana Bayne Corset

In another unforgettable scene, Rema switches things up with a striking Guess USA jacket, layered over a custom Zana Bayne corset. The fusion of streetwear and avant-garde fashion is a testament to his ability to push boundaries. The outfit is completed with Willy Chavarria shorts and Courrèges boots, a combination that feels both daring and fashion-forward.

This look is particularly significant as it challenges traditional notions of masculinity in fashion. The corset, an unconventional choice for male artists, speaks to Rema’s confidence in his personal style and his refusal to conform to rigid fashion norms.

The Mitchell & Ness Jersey and Timberland Boots

Rema’s versatility in fashion is further highlighted in his Mitchell & Ness jersey ensemble. This look leans heavily into sportswear aesthetics, embodying the effortless cool associated with vintage basketball culture. Paired with Timberland boots and Vintage Frames Company glasses, the outfit exudes a relaxed yet stylish vibe.

This ensemble stands out as a perfect example of how Rema bridges the gap between retro sportswear and contemporary street fashion. The jersey, a staple of ’90s hip-hop and R&B fashion, reinforces the nostalgic theme of the video while aligning with his modern take on style.

Rema: A Cultural Icon in Music and Fashion

What makes Rema a compelling figure is his ability to transcend music and make an impact in the world of fashion. His style is not just about aesthetics—it is an extension of his artistry, a way for him to communicate his identity and creativity beyond lyrics and melodies.

Rema’s approach to fashion mirrors his approach to music: experimental, boundary-pushing, and unapologetically original. In Baby (Is It A Crime), he showcases his ability to blend influences seamlessly, proving that his artistic vision extends far beyond the studio. His wardrobe choices are deliberate and meaningful, reflecting both his personal style and the broader cultural movements he represents.

By incorporating elements of Nigerian fashion, vintage luxury, and contemporary streetwear, Rema positions himself as a global style icon. His boldness in mixing textures, silhouettes, and brands sets him apart, making him a trendsetter not only in African music but in the fashion world at large.

Impression

Rema’s Baby (Is It A Crime) is more than just a music video—it is an experience. The combination of sultry melodies, evocative visuals, and fearless fashion choices makes it a masterpiece that resonates on multiple levels.

By paying homage to Sade while infusing his own unique style, Rema bridges generational gaps, bringing a classic sound into a contemporary space. The video’s aesthetics capture the essence of ’90s nostalgia while remaining fresh and innovative, a balance that few artists can achieve successfully.

From the meticulously curated outfits to the moody, atmospheric cinematography, every element of the video is a reflection of Rema’s dedication to artistry. His ability to merge music, fashion, and visual storytelling solidifies his status as one of the most exciting and multifaceted artists in the industry today.

With Baby (Is It A Crime), Rema not only delivers a stunning musical tribute but also reinforces his position as a cultural force, redefining the intersection of music and fashion for a new generation.

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