Is It A Crime

The song centers on themes of love, identity, and rebellion against judgment. Both artists convey a sense of frustration with how their love is perceived by outsiders. The mood is a mix of defiance and vulnerability, as they grapple with their feelings in a world that often seeks to tear them apart. Written in a context where love can sometimes feel like a crime, the song speaks to anyone who's ever felt judged for their choices in relationships.

Verse 1

"Sometimes I look around for someone who might understand it
I seen it and their eyes said it, they'll, they'll never get it
I think I lost my patience, and now I can't contain it
They, they were wrong about us, I ain't the way they paint it"

In this verse, the speaker reflects on feeling isolated and misunderstood. They search for someone who can relate to their experience but are met with judgment instead. The mention of "lost my patience" suggests frustration with the lack of understanding from others. This sets the stage for the central theme of the song: love that doesn't conform to societal expectations.

Chorus

"I love the way that you walk and the air you breathe (can't touch us)
I just let 'em talk, but it bothers me (oh)
'Cause it ain't love, it ain't love, it ain't love they see (can't touch us)
But it ain't nothin' to discuss 'cause it is to me, and so what? (Oh)"

The chorus highlights a deep appreciation for the partner's unique qualities. The phrase "can't touch us" suggests that their love is strong enough to withstand outside criticism. Despite the external noise, the speaker insists that their love is valid, even if others can't see it. This defiance is empowering, reinforcing the idea that their relationship is theirs to define.

Verse 2

"I fell, you fell in love a couple times
Tell me, what's it to ya? Tell me, is it a crime to fall
To fall in love, in love a couple times?
Tell me, what's it to ya? Tell me, is it a crime to fall?"

Here, the speaker addresses a doubter, questioning why falling in love is treated as a fault. They acknowledge their past experiences but emphasize that love should be celebrated, not criticized. This verse pushes back against societal norms, asking for acceptance rather than judgment. It's a powerful declaration of the right to love freely.

Chorus

"Is it a crime? All of the cryin', no
'Cause if lovin' me is jail, then you're my prisoner
So let me throw away this key 'cause you won't give me up
Let 'em know we don't give a fuck, all they want to see is us break it off"

The repeated chorus reinforces the idea that love, even with its pain, is not a crime. The line about "lovin' me is jail" flips the narrative, suggesting that the bond is so strong it feels like a commitment. The imagery of throwing away the key symbolizes a desire for freedom in love, rejecting any outside pressure to conform. This further solidifies their defiance against societal expectations.

Verse 3

"You could search the Seven Seas and never find, no
A heart like mine, better yet, can't forget my mind, no
Some may say I'm crashin' and their cards are on the table
But I'm a woman, I'm not a girl, is that a crime in this cruel world?"

In this verse, the speaker asserts their uniqueness and strength. The phrase "search the Seven Seas" emphasizes how rare and special their love is. They confront the critics who label them as weak or foolish, declaring their femininity and independence. This adds depth to the theme, showing that their identity plays a crucial role in how they experience love.

Chorus

"And so what? I fell, you fell in love a couple times
Tell me, what's it to ya? Tell me, is it a crime to fall
To fall in love, in love a couple times?
Tell me, what's it to ya? Tell me, is it a crime to fall?"

The final repetition of the chorus brings the song to a powerful close. It circles back to the earlier sentiments, reinforcing the message that love is not something to be ashamed of. The confrontation with naysayers is strong here, emphasizing that their love story is theirs alone, and they will not apologize for it.

Closing Thoughts

This song resonates with listeners because it captures the struggle of loving unapologetically in a judgmental world. Mariah the Scientist and Kali Uchis create a relatable narrative that many can connect with, making it a memorable anthem for anyone who's ever felt the weight of external opinions on their relationships. Its blend of vulnerability and defiance leaves a lasting impression, encouraging others to embrace their love stories without fear.