d4vd, Romantic Homicide | Controversial Songs

In the 27^th edition of Controversial Songs (2025), we explore the controversy behind “Romantic Homicide” by d4vd.

Bring on the controversy! Controversial Songs is a column that provides background information and insight into songs that raised eyebrows, stirred the pot, or were banned. The more censorship censor$hit, the better! The records that grace Controversial Songs are old and new alike, with all genres of music welcome.  In the 27^th edition of Controversial Songs (2025), we explore the controversy behind “Romantic Homicide” by d4vd. 

“In the back of my mind / You died.”

Harsh words, d4vd (David Burke).  The embattled singer continues singing in the second verse of “Romantic Homicide”, “And I didn’t even cry / No, not a single tear.” 😬 Question: When “Romantic Homicide” was released as a single in 2022, did anyone bat an eye? No. Now, with the controversy surrounding Burke, eyes are being batted regarding the seventh track from his 2023 EP, Petals to Thorns.

“Romantic Homicide” is a brief song, running just north of two minutes.  It begins with an enigmatic, chilling cymbal 👻. From there, the musical backdrop transforms into a lush, guitar-heavy, alternative pop cut. The vibe is dark and moody, though the single remains in a major key. The sound is amorous and dreamlike. The melodies are tuneful throughout. But, the lyrics…  they are undeniably chilling, disturbing, and emotional. Does d4vd sing them well? Yes.  His vocals are passionate, with a dash of emo emotions.  But the sentiments are troubling, particularly given the circumstances regarding the death of Celeste Rivas Hernandez.  After imaging the death in the second verse, in the third, he is the murderer:

“In the back of my mind

I killed you

And I didn’t even regret it

I can’t believe I said it

But it’s true

I hate you.”

Ooh-wee 😶.  Here’s the deal.  The timing is bad for d4vd. That is an understatement. Before, none of us believed that he was capable of murder, or, we knew little about him (especially those of us who are NOT Gen-Z). But, regardless of his guilt or not regarding a real-life death, which is a murder investigation, his career seems, dare I say, cooked.  And while “Romantic Homicide” is far tamer and less controversial than many brutal, death metal songs or some hardcore rap, it still makes you ponder things…