IT’S NEW MUSIC FRIDAY AND LOVE IS IN THE AIR

New Music Friday is always an exciting time for music lovers, but this particular Friday hits differently. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, love is undeniably in the air, and artists across the Afrobeats scene are making sure we feel every bit of it. This week’s lineup is a beautiful mix of passion, romance, and groove, with some of the biggest names in the industry dropping tracks that are bound to set the perfect mood for the season of love.

With stellar production, infectious melodies, and lyrics that tug at the heartstrings, this week’s releases offer something for everyone–whether you’re celebrating love, longing for it, or just vibing to great music. 

Let’s jump right in!

BABY (IS IT A CRIME) – REMA

After months of anticipation, snippets that set social media ablaze, and a marketing rollout that had fans counting down the days, Rema’s latest single, Baby (Is It a Crime), is finally out. Released in the early hours of today, the track, produced by the exceptionally talented P.Priime, is already making waves, topping music charts across Nigeria within just 12 hours.

A fusion of nostalgia and contemporary Afro-fusion, Baby (Is It a Crime) samples Sade’s 1985 classic Is It a Crime, paying homage to the legendary British-Nigerian singer while reinventing the sound with a fresh, rhythmic flair. Rema’s smooth vocals glide effortlessly over P.Priime’s intricate beat, creating a sonic experience that feels both deeply emotional and danceable–a balance only an artist of his caliber can strike.

But it’s the second verse that takes the track from great to legendary. Until today, fans had only heard snippets of the song’s first half, now, the full release reveals a second verse that is nothing short of spectacular. Rema’s cadence is impeccable, his delivery sharp, and his punchlines land with surgical precision. Every word fits snugly into the beat’s groove, making for an immersive listening experience that leaves no room for a dull moment. His use of the Yoruba phrase sunmomi (“come closer to me”) adds a sultry, romantic touch, making this track not just a sonic triumph but also an anthem for the season of love.

And we can’t ignore P.Priime’s production–this is a beat that demands to be played at high volume. The layering of instruments, the crisp percussion, and the smooth transitions showcase his genius in a way that is beyond thrilling. It’s a beat that evolves as the song progresses, subtly shifting to complement Rema’s voice and lyricism. Their synergy is undeniable, and it’s clear that this collaboration was crafted with meticulous attention to detail.

With the official music video set to drop at 6 PM today, the excitement surrounding Baby (Is It a Crime) is far from over. If Rema’s history with visuals is anything to go by, we can expect a masterpiece–one that not only complements the song’s narrative but also elevates it to a whole new level.

For now, one thing is certain: Baby (Is It a Crime) isn’t just another hit for Rema–it’s an outstanding piece of art, crafted by creative geniuses. With the way it’s already dominating the charts, there’s no doubt that this one is here to stay.

PITY THIS BOY – ODUMODUBLVCK AND VICTONY

The wait is over–Odumodublvck’s Pity This Boy featuring Victony is finally here, and it delivers exactly what fans had hoped for: a smooth yet hard-hitting anthem that blends streetwise lyricism with melodic finesse. Released today, the track serves as the first major glimpse into Odumodublvck’s forthcoming album, Industry Machine, and if this is any indication of what’s to come, we’re in for something special.

From the very first beat, it’s clear that Pity This Boy is a song designed to be both infectious and introspective. Niphkeys‘ masterful production lays the perfect foundation–lush instrumentals, bouncy percussions, and a groove that makes it impossible to sit still. Odumodublvck enters with his signature energy, delivering sharp-witted bars that paint a picture of a man caught in the cycle of endless financial demands from a woman who is never satisfied. The track’s hook, “They for like pity this boy, every day na billing, with her shameful decoy”, sums up the entire narrative–he’s giving her the baby girl lifestyle, but all she wants is more.

Victony’s contribution takes the song to another level. His silky vocals glide over the beat, providing a contrast to Odumodublvck’s gritty delivery. He adds a layer of melody that makes Pity This Boy feel like a song you could both vibe and reflect to. His verse, effortlessly weaving between singing and rhythmic flow, adds an undeniable catchiness that stays with you long after the track ends.

Lyrically, Pity This Boy isn’t just about lavish spending–it’s a deeper commentary on modern relationships, expectations, and the blurred lines between love and materialism. With mentions of Gucci, Prada, Fendi, and luxury trips to places like Seychelles and Addis Ababa, Odumodublvck and Victony paint a vivid picture of extravagant romance, only to highlight the unending demands that come with it. It’s a relatable tale, delivered in a way that makes you nod in agreement while still moving to the rhythm.

With Industry Machine on the horizon, Odumodublvck has set the bar high with this release. His ability to merge social commentary with street anthems remains unmatched, and Pity This Boy is yet another testament to his artistry. The song is already gaining traction, climbing charts within hours of release, and there’s no doubt it will be a fan favorite in no time.

VENUS – NSG FEATURING LYVIA 

NSG is back, and this time, they’ve got something celestial for us. Their latest single, Venus, featuring the incredible Lyvia, is a vibrant, high-energy track that blends Afroswing, Afro-fusion, and undeniable groove. Released today as the lead single off their upcoming album, The Big 6, this song is a testament to NSG’s ability to craft feel-good anthems while maintaining their signature style.

From the very first note, Venus establishes itself as an instant hit. The track opens with Lyvia’s mesmerizing vocals, wrapping the listener in a melodic embrace. Her chorus–“Take this tequila in my hand and take me to Venus on the dance floor… You told me, you said you can’t dance, well you can’t, I’m feeling you anyway”–is effortlessly catchy, setting the tone for a song that’s equal parts seductive and celebratory. Her voice glides over the beat like silk, adding a soulful depth that elevates Venus beyond just another party track.

Then, the NSG boys step in, and they do what they do best–deliver high-energy verses packed with vibe, charisma, and that signature UK-meets-Afrobeat swagger. Each member brings their unique flavor to the track, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment. Their back-and-forth dynamic, coupled with punchy lyricism and a rhythm that refuses to let your body stay still, makes Venus an undeniable banger.

A huge shoutout has to go to 4PLAY, the mastermind behind the beat. The production is nothing short of spectacular–deep basslines, a sweet guitar melody that adds warmth, and an Afro-fusion bounce that makes Venus the perfect dance floor anthem. The beat is as infectious as it is intricate, seamlessly blending NSG’s energetic flow with Lyvia’s sultry vocals.

This track isn’t just a song; it’s an experience. It’s that moment when the club lights dim just right, when the energy in the room is electric, when you’re lost in the music with a drink in hand, vibing like you’re on another planet. And that’s exactly what NSG and Lyvia have given us with Venus–a trip to another world, a euphoric escape set to music.

With The Big 6 dropping on February 28, Venus sets the perfect tone for what’s to come. If this track is any indication, NSG is gearing up to deliver one of the biggest and most dynamic projects of the year. Until then, we’ll be on the dance floor, letting Venus take us exactly where we need to be.

KEYS TO YOUR HEART – YEMI ALADE

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, Yemi Alade has delivered the perfect soundtrack for the season of love–Keys to Your Heart. Released today, this enchanting track is a testament to Yemi’s ability to blend passion, culture, and melody into a seamless Afropop masterpiece.

From the very first line, Yemi sets the tone for romance: “February wey go sweet na from January you go know, as Valentine dey reach, na my baby I go hold…” The song radiates warmth, painting a vivid picture of love that isn’t just fleeting but deeply rooted in devotion. She serenades her lover, asking for the keys to his heart, promising to cherish it without ever breaking it.

The track’s production is nothing short of breathtaking. With Valentino Ogbonnaya at the helm, the beat is rich in cultural depth, blending contemporary Afrobeats with traditional African elements. The instrumentation carries a rhythmic yet soothing vibe, making Keys to Your Heart both danceable and deeply emotional.

Adding to its authenticity, Yemi Alade infuses her native Igbo language into the song, reinforcing her signature Afrocentric style. This linguistic and musical choice gives the song an extra layer of depth, making it resonate even more with local audiences.

With Keys to Your Heart, Yemi Alade has once again proven why she remains one of Africa’s leading musical voices. This isn’t just a love song—it’s a cultural masterpiece, a heartfelt confession wrapped in melody, perfect for setting the mood this Valentine’s season. Whether you’re spending it with a loved one or vibing solo, this song will have you feeling the love in the air.

MAD ME – PERUZZI 

Nigerian music sensation Peruzzi is back, and this time, he’s setting hearts on fire with his latest single, Mad Me, released today, February 7, 2025. Known for his smooth, husky voice and masterful storytelling, Peruzzi takes listeners on an emotional journey, blending passion, melody, and impeccable production into what can only be described as a love-struck masterpiece.

Right from the first note, Mad Me exudes an undeniable charm. Peruzzi pours his heart out, serenading his lover with heartfelt lyrics that capture the intensity of his emotions. Passionately, he confesses his affection with heartfelt lyrics like “fine girl, you dey mad me, you put your hands all over my body and I feel butterflies in my belly…,” painting a vivid picture of a love so intoxicating, it leaves him yearning for more. His vulnerability shines through as he declares he never wants to feel the cold and loneliness of her presence, making the track deeply relatable to anyone who has ever been overwhelmed by love.

The song’s production, handled by the talented duo Sensei and Irockclassic, is nothing short of exhilarating. A perfect balance of Afrobeats and R&B, the beat carries an exciting yet soothing rhythm that complements Peruzzi’s delivery. But the real magic happens towards the end of the track, where a choral arrangement of background vocals elevates the song to an almost ethereal level. 

Peruzzi has never been one to hold back when it comes to creating music that resonates with the soul, and Mad Me is yet another testament to his artistry. As Valentine’s season approaches, this track is bound to dominate playlists, offering lovers a soundtrack to their most intimate moments.

With Mad Me, Peruzzi proves once again why he remains one of Afrobeats’ most dynamic voices–effortlessly blending romance, passion, and top-tier production into a track that is both exhilarating and beautiful.

This Valentine’s season, love and music go hand in hand, and today’s releases have set the perfect soundtrack for the days ahead. Whether you’re looking to serenade a special someone, groove on the dancefloor, or simply get lost in the melodies, there’s a song for every mood and moment.

With artists pouring their hearts into their craft, blending Afrobeat rhythms with soul-stirring lyricism, this New Music Friday serves as a reminder of music’s power to capture emotions in their most raw form. As we count down to February 14, one thing is certain–love is in the air and in the music. So breathe and it all in as you enjoy the music. Remember, alone or with your partner, good music slaps regardless. Cheers 🥂