New single by Ariana Grande was released recently on July 13, 2018. “God is a Woman” is Grande’s second single released off her new album titled, “Sweetener.” This album is planned to be released mid August and needless to say, fans are excited to hear more from her.
Grande’s first single off the album, “No Tears Left to Cry,” was released in early May which stirred up some talk about what to expect next from the artist.
I personally wasn’t a fan of the first single just because of whole “picking it up part.” The lyrics and track just weren’t doing it for me.
The single’s otherworldly video definitely alluded to the style brought to the next video. I appreciate the slight constancy. And the whole woman empowerment theme dusting her new music is admirable.
On to the actual review:
This single really interested me more than much of her other work in the past. Everything from the vocals, to the videography, to the simple track.
The Title
Some reactions from the song so far have been geared at the title. The title has been seen at controversial since most people assume that God is a man.
However, I think Grande’s point of this song wasn’t to attack God. I believe she was just trying to use this as symbolism to guide to women empowerment.
I like that the song hints at women empowerment without being super preachy and bold.
Let me know what you think in the comments.
The Track
The simplicity of the track gave a much more chill vibe to the song. Which was a nice mix of Grande’s usual upbeat pop songs or slow soul moments. It sounds like she’s almost dabbling in the R&B world of music.
Even with the easy chill listening, there is still that beat that keeps the song interesting. I also love that the track has a unique beginning that drew me in first thing (other than the strong note to start off the song) and split it up.
Overall, the track is very smooth and flows flawlessly which I enjoyed. Even the “rapping” part flowed really well.
The Vocals
Slowing it down for the chorus to show off the vocals was really nice. It really played into the whole sultry vibe of the song.
The vocals throughout the whole song sort of progress from soft and effortless to some riffs, runs and note changes. It’s not hard for a listener to see how full Grande’s voice is.
However, I feel like Grande just threw some high notes and rifs in there just to either show off her voice or go along with that pattern in her other songs. Maybe it’s her signature? Either way, I’m noticing this as a pattern in most of her songs.
The Lyrics
I do like the lyrics. To me it seems as if Grande is speaking to a loved one about how women should be treated. This is a nice message to give in a song of this nature. The message is subtle, but still meaningful. She notices that a lover may enjoy her body, but she is reminding him that she is more than an object: she creates life and is a human.
However, I do want to recognize that the lyrics aren’t the kind to win a Nobel Prize.
To me, she’s ultimately describing a sexual encounter where the partner may have their way, but they must be reminded that women aren’t always submissive beings and they have power to say, change their mind or refuse.
That’s a nice message, but again, the lyrics aren’t my favorite aspect of the song since they aren’t very elaborate and are pretty repetitive.
The Video:
I honestly enjoyed the music video more than the song.
There is so much happening which could be confusing to some, but I liked how each scene was made to represent something to do with God.
There were a few scenes that confused me. I don’t get why the whole screaming meerkat thing was included (other than the meme it is probably referencing to). Other scenes that were interesting, yet unclear to me were the part where she is speaking and then throws the hammer, and the scene with her painted in the water.
What do you think those scenes are portraying? Let me know in the comments.
My Rating:
After listening to this track, I would like to give it a score of 8 out of 10.
The video really helps bring that rating from a 7 to an 8. The music video is very elaborate and well thought through. Each scene is made to represent something which I really love.
The lyrics aren’t my favorite, but I really enjoyed the sultry vibe that the song brought to the table. It’s a nice change for Grande and I look forward to see what she comes up with in the future.
* * * * * * *
Until Next Time,
Vic Wilbur
