Released: 2024
Bryson Tiller’s “Whatever She Wants” unravels the narrative of a tempestuous relationship where the protagonist indulges his girl with material luxuries, despite their rocky rapport. Tiller paints a picture of an unbalanced dynamic, underlining the power his partner holds over him. While their relationship may be filled with opulent splurges and sexual energy, it’s interspersed with resentment and feelings of being manipulated.
Tiller’s chorus “I’ma take her bougie ass to Rodeo and then let her pick up whatever she want” is a straightforward commentary on his materialistic indulgence, spoiling his girl with high-end brands like CC (Chanel), Gucci, and Bottega Veneta. Despite feeling irritated by her, “She piss me off, somehow she still get whatever she want“, he continues to bend to her whims.
The use of “Like I’m singin’ Mase, I made her tell me what she want” is a clever nod to rapper Ma$e’s hit song “Tell Me What You Want.” Tiller uses this reference to conflate the objectification aspect of their sexual relationship with his girl’s materialistic demands.
In the following verse, Tiller details the power dynamics at play. “I know pussy power got me buyin’ shit again” speaks to how his physical desire for her has him caught up, fuelling unnecessary expenditures. Again, he speaks of a sense of manipulation, “Got a nigga feelin’ like a sucker yet again“, revealing his internal turmoil and regret.
In the line “Thick so when I hit it sound like Flocka adlibs (baow-baow, baow-baow-baow)“, Tiller resorts to classic hip-hop bravado, implying the strength of their physical intimacy by likening it to the aggressive ad-libs of rapper Waka Flocka Flame. However, the respite is momentary as he returns to feelings of manipulation and his inability to stand his ground against her demands.
As the song moves towards the conclusion, Tiller refers to his partner as “spoiled as a motherfucker“, expressing exasperation. Yet, he continues to appease her, “Take her to the dealership, the Porsche, it got a twin, huh“. Tiller cleverly uses the phrase “She don’t hold a damn thing, she spicy like Tajin” to illustrate her fiery attitude, referencing the popular spicy Mexican seasoning.
Overall, “Whatever She Wants” delves deep into the complexities of a relationship steeped in material indulgence, power plays, and an unpleasant undercurrent of manipulation. Despite Tiller’s repeated indulgences, there’s a clear sense of discontent and a desire for a more balanced dynamic. He illustrates a tale where love, power, and wealth intertwine, with an end yet unknown.
