Ariana Grande, the renowned American pop singer, has mesmerized audiences globally with her exceptional vocals and memorable pop melodies. Her hit song, Side to Side, featuring rap queen Nicki Minaj, has garnered substantial attention for its suggestive lyrics and catchy rhythm.

This article will delve into the meaning behind Ariana Grande’s Side to Side, exploring the song’s creation, composition, and its influence on Grande’s illustrious career. Prepare to uncover the hidden messages behind the irresistible beats of Ariana Grande’s Side to Side.

The Making of Ariana Grande’s Side to Side

Side to Side is a reggae-pop track from Ariana Grande’s third studio album, Dangerous Woman, which debuted in 2016. Ariana Grande collaborated with Savan Kotecha, Alexander Kronlund, and Nicki Minaj to pen the song. The track was produced by the legendary Max Martin and Ilya Salmanzadeh, who are celebrated for their successful collaborations with various artists.

Deciphering the Lyrics of Ariana Grande’s Side to Side

The lyrics of Ariana Grande’s Side to Side have ignited curiosity among fans and critics. The song delves into themes of sexual empowerment and liberation. In a conversation with MTV News, Grande disclosed that the song is about the physical aftermath of intense sexual experiences, leading to soreness. The lyrics, “Ride dick bicycle,” as confirmed by Grande, indicate the explicit nature of the song’s subject matter.

Critical Reception and Commercial Success of Side to Side

Upon its release, Side to Side received positive reviews from music critics. Stephen Thomas Erlewine of AllMusic compared the song to Rihanna’s works, praising the tropical flavors and ska upstrumming that Grande incorporated into the track. The collaboration with Nicki Minaj was also highly praised, with Minaj’s verse adding an element of danger to the song.

In terms of commercial success, Side to Side made waves on the charts. It peaked at number four on the US Billboard Hot 100, becoming Grande’s first top-five single from the Dangerous Woman album. The song also reached number four on the UK Singles Chart, marking Grande’s first top-ten single from the album in the UK. It achieved similar success in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, solidifying Grande’s international presence.

Ariana Grande’s Side to Side Music Video: A Sensual Journey

Directed by Hannah Lux Davis, the music video for Side to Side perfectly complements the song’s themes. It premiered on the American clothing brand Guess’s website and features Grande in various visually stunning scenes. The video begins with Grande leading a spin class, showcasing her athleticism and energy. It then transitions to a gym and locker room setting, where Grande and backup dancers display their boxing skills. The most visually striking scene takes place in a sauna, where Grande and Minaj are surrounded by shirtless men, exuding sensuality and empowerment.

Live Performances and Awards for Ariana Grande’s Side to Side

Grande and Minaj have brought Side to Side to life through electrifying live performances. They took the stage together at the 2016 MTV Video Music Awards and the American Music Awards, captivating audiences with their chemistry and showmanship. The song’s music video received a nomination for Best Choreography at the 2017 MTV Video Music Awards, further cementing its impact on popular culture.

Decoding the Background and Composition of Ariana Grande’s Side to Side

Before the release of Dangerous Woman, Grande created anticipation by premiering a new song exclusively on Apple Music every day. She teased Side to Side on her Instagram account, giving fans a taste of what was to come. The song was written by Max Martin, Savan Kotecha, Ilya Salmanzadeh, Alexander Kronlund, Grande, and Minaj. Martin and Salmanzadeh handled the production, incorporating drums, percussion, guitars, bass, and keyboards to create the infectious sound of Side to Side. The background vocals were provided by Kotecha, Chonita Gilbert, Joi Gilliam, and Taura Stinson.

The Unique Sound of Ariana Grande’s Side to Side

Side to Side is a reggae-pop and dancehall song with R&B influences. Its duration is three minutes and forty-six seconds, filled with tropical flavors and catchy melodies that leave listeners wanting more.

The lyrics of Side to Side describe the physical toll that intense sexual experiences can have on the body. In an interview with MTV News, Grande expressed that the song’s meaning revolves around the discomfort and soreness that can result from such encounters. The explicit nature of the lyrics is highlighted when Minaj raps about “bicycles” and “tricycles,” alluding to activities beyond a standard gym workout.

The Impact and Legacy of Ariana Grande’s Side to Side

Side to Side has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on Ariana Grande’s career. It showcases her evolution as an artist, embracing her sexuality and using music as a platform for empowerment. The song’s success on the charts and its widespread popularity have solidified Grande’s position as a pop icon. Side to Side continues to resonate with listeners worldwide, serving as an anthem of sexual liberation and self-expression.

Conclusion

Side to Side is more than just a catchy pop song; it represents Ariana Grande’s artistic growth and willingness to push boundaries. The song’s explicit lyrics and infectious sound have captivated audiences worldwide, propelling it to the top of the charts. Through its music video and live performances, Side to Side further amplifies its message of empowerment and sexual liberation.

As Grande’s career continues to flourish, Side to Side will undoubtedly remain a defining moment in her discography, solidifying her status as a powerhouse in the music industry. So, let the beats of Side to Side transport you into a world of sensuality and confidence – a world where Ariana Grande reigns supreme.

Ariana Grande Side to Side Lyrics

Intro: Ariana Grande & Nicki Minaj
I’ve been here all night (Ariana)
I’ve been here all day (Nicki Minaj)
And boy, got me walkin’ side to side (Let them hoes know)

Verse 1: Ariana Grande
I’m talkin’ to ya
See you standing over there with your body
Feeling like I wanna rock with your body
And we don’t gotta think ’bout nothin’ (‘Bout nothin’)
I’m comin’ at ya
‘Cause I know you got a bad reputation
Doesn’t matter, ’cause you give me temptation
And we don’t gotta think ’bout nothin’ (‘Bout nothin’)

Pre-Chorus: Ariana Grande
These friends keep talkin’ way too much
Say I should give you up
Can’t hear them, no, ’cause I

Chorus: Ariana Grande
I’ve been here all night
I’ve been here all day
And boy, got me walkin’ side to side
I’ve been here all night
I’ve been here all day
And boy, got me walkin’ side to side (Side to side)

Verse 2: Ariana Grande
Been tryna hide it
Baby, what’s it gonna hurt if they don’t know?
Makin’ everybody think that we solo
Just as long as you know you got me (You got me)
And boy, I got ya
‘Cause tonight I’m making deals with the devil
And I know it’s gonna get me in trouble
Just as long as you know you got me

Pre-Chorus: Ariana Grande
These friends keep talkin’ way too much
Say I should give you up
Can’t hear them, no, ’cause I

Chorus: Ariana Grande
I’ve been here all night
I’ve been here all day
And boy, got me walkin’ side to side (Side to side)
I’ve been here all night (Been here all night, baby)
I’ve been here all day (Been here all day, baby)
And boy, got me walkin’ side to side (Side to side)

Verse 3: Nicki Minaj
Uh, yo
This the new style with the fresh type of flow
Wrist icicle, ride dick bicycle
Come through, yo, get you this type of blow
If you want a ménage, I got a tricycle
All these bitches’ flows is my mini-me
Body smoking, so they call me Young Nicki Chimney
Rappers in they feelings ’cause they feelin’ me (Murder)
Uh, I-I give zero fucks and I got zero chill in me
Kissing me, copped the blue box that say Tiffany
Curry with the shot, just tell ’em to call me Stephanie
Gun pop, then I make my gum pop
I’m the queen of rap, young Ariana run pop, uh

Pre-Chorus: Ariana Grande
These friends keep talkin’ way too much (Way too much)
Say I should give him up (Give him up)
Can’t hear them, no, ’cause I

Chorus: Ariana Grande
I’ve been here all night (Been here all night, baby)
I’ve been here all day (Been here all night, baby)
And boy (Boy), got me walkin’ side to side (Side to side)
I’ve been here all night (Been here all night, baby)
I’ve been here all day (Been here all day, baby) (Ooh, baby)
And boy (No), got me walkin’ side to side (Side to side)
(Yeah-eh, yeah, yeah, yeah)

Outro: Nicki Minaj & Ariana Grande
Uh, yo
This the new style with the fresh type of flow (Nah, nah, baby)
Wrist icicle, ride dick bicycle
Come through, yo, get you this type of blow
If you want a ménage, I got a tricycle (No, eh, hey, eh, eh)