Nigerian singer-songwriter Remii, an artist whose voice has been honed through years of musical exploration from church choirs to international stages, releases his latest single, “Biko.” This soulful track delves into the universal experience of unrequited love, framed beautifully through a Nigerian cultural lens.
Growing up a shy child in Festac, Lagos, music became Remii’s sanctuary and primary form of self-expression. His passion deepened during his time in the UK, where he immersed himself in the gospel scene, notably as part of the Manchester-based collective Voices Beyond and through a memorable performance on BBC’s Songs of Praise.
Returning to Nigeria in 2020, Remii continued his musical journey with the acclaimed group 121 Selah, achieving recognition as runners-up in the Old Mutual Amazing Voices competition. Now, as a solo artist, he masterfully blends the rich sounds of his Nigerian heritage with Western influences, creating a sound that deeply resonates with listeners.
His new single, “Biko,” meaning “please” in Igbo, poignantly captures the ache of yearning for someone whose feelings are not reciprocated. Through evocative lyrics like “Are you feeling this too?” and the culturally rich “E be like say na voodoo,” Remii portrays attraction as a powerful, almost mystical force that defies logic yet demands honest expression.
The beauty of “Biko” lies in its captivating contrasts. The urgency of heartfelt questions such as “Tell me I’m not alone…” is set against a breezy Afrobeat groove, creating a compelling sonic landscape. The poetic simplicity of the melodic plea “Tinini Tanana Biko Biko” feels both like a tender lullaby and a heartfelt prayer.
Written by Remii and expertly produced by Fkyo, the track strikes a delicate balance between vulnerability and underlying hope, making it both deeply relatable and irresistibly smooth.
Love’s complexities are beautifully captured in “Biko.” Whether you find yourself whispering unspoken feelings under the Lagos moonlight or dancing alone to its captivating chorus, Remii’s heartfelt plea, “Tell me you love me back,” resonates as both a questioning whisper and a quiet, hopeful declaration: Let’s get lost in this feeling together.
“Biko” is available now on all major streaming platforms.
