“Slime You Out” by Drake and SZA was released on Sept. 15, 2023, and so far has received mixed reviews. The single is a precursor to Drake’s upcoming album, “For All The Dogs,” set to be released on Friday Oct. 6. As a teaser for the single’s release, Drake posted a photo that tagged SZA of Halle Berry being slimed — a tradition at the Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards where slime is dumped on a celebrity — at the awards in 2012. The sliming ties into not only the name of the song, but also a specific lyric from Drake, “I’m slimin’ you for them kid choices you made.”
Compared to the songs on his last album, “Her Loss,” this track is slower, and tells a story with the lyrics. Drake goes through each month, with detailed changes that occurred in his romantic relationship during that time.
The lyrics depict the volatile nature of Drake’s relationship, stating “March got you already second guessin’ titles, April, spring is here and just like a spring, you start to spiral … July, that’s when I found out you lie.” Drake’s lyrics go on to say “You lucky that I don’t take back what was given … I could have you on payment plan ‘til you’re hundred and fifty.” Drake and SZA sing about toxic relationships, encapsulating a common feeling that you’re giving more than you are getting.
This song has sparked some questions regarding whether the lyrics dictate an actual encounter between Drake and SZA, seeing as they dated in 2008. Each of their parts within the song almost contradict each other.
“Slime You Out” follows SZA’s slow and soft style contrasting Drake’s usual, faster-paced style. While the song’s energy may be a departure from Drake’s previous work, the lyrics are as expected. In the background of the song, there is a loop of the same sound using drums, bass, and a melodic keyboard, which ties into the feeling of the song, moody and angry.
Despite its criticisms, “Slime You Out” is climbing the charts, already hitting number one of the Billboard Hot 100. The collaboration between the two artists sparked interest from all over the internet. And with its release comes a question: is this Drake’s new style, or just a one-off for his new album?