- Recently, Afrobeats singer Rema dropped his first single of 2025, Baby (Is It a Crime)
- With the recent song’s milestones, it is not the first time his first single of the year gained such reception from fans
- TheRadar curated his first singles of the year that became hits since his debut
For a music artiste, the release of their first single of the year is significant, setting the mood for anticipation among fans.
This pivotal first track of the year not only signals the artiste’s creative direction but also ignites excitement for what the year has in store.
Each note and lyric carries the weight of expectation, making it a defining start to their musical journey in the months ahead.
Similarly, since his debut in 2019, Nigerian singer Rema has consistently scored big hits with his first singles of the year.
Recently, the Afrobeats singer Rema released his first single of 2025 Baby (Is It a Crime). The reception so far has further solidified the record-setting ability of his first singles of the year.
From his hit days of Dumebi, to Beamer and Calm Down, the 24-year-old singer has recorded notable milestones with his first singles of the year.
Rema’s first singles of the year
- Dumebi - 2019
The song Dumebi is Rema's debut single. The song, which became a hit, spawned five remixes including a version that featured American singer Becky G. Dumebi got certified Platinum in France and Gold in Switzerland. Dumebi notably also made Obama’s Summer playlist in 2019.
- Beamer - 2020
On February 21, 2020, Rema released his hit track Beamer. It was released as his first of the year after the release of his 2019 EP Bad Commando.
- Bounce - 2021
Bounce was Rema’s first single of 2021, which later became a smashing hit song of that year. The song was his first single that featured his record label boss, Don Jazzy. Bounce is an anthem inspired by the magnificent body of an African woman.
- Calm Down - 2022
Of all his record-breaking first single of the year songs, none comes to close Calm Down featuring American singer Selena Gomez. The song amongst all its feats notably hit over one billion views on YouTube. It was the first African song to do so.
- Holiday - 2023
2023 saw the Afrobeats singer make another hit with his Holiday track as his first single of the year. The happiness-inspired song captured Rema in his peaceful and relaxed state as a singer.
- Benin Boys - 2024
Collaborating with Shallipopi, Rema dropped his first single of the 2024 Benin Boys. The song became an anthem and was eventually nominated for the 2024 Trace Awards. It was nominated for Song of the Year and Best Collaboration.
- Baby (Is It A Crime) - 2025
Rema’s latest first single of 2025 Baby (Is It a Crime) has left fans buzzing following its anticipation. Rema’s newly released song recently debuted on #100 on Apple Music Top 100 Global Songs chart. It is the first African song released in 2025 to appear on the chart. It is now the biggest first day streams for any song released in 2025 on Spotify NG.
Album Review: “HEIS” is Rema’s monotonous outburst for recognition
Meanwhile, earlier, TheRadar reviewed Rema’s album. It solidified an evolution in the 24-year-old's artistic journey, but it signalled a monotonous outburst to seek recognition.
Considering the title of the album and its meaning, Rema, born Divine Ikubor, made a rather bold declaration of himself as “number one” in the music game - which is quite controversial.
