Released: 2020
Drake’s “Toosie Slide” is a masterclass in blending dance culture with street sensibilities. The song uses a simple dance move as a metaphor for navigating life’s challenges, offering layers of meaning about resilience and the hustle. It’s also a nod to Michael Jackson, connecting the allure of pop culture with the rough edges of street life.
Drake opens up with “Black leather glove, no sequins”, setting a gritty tone that contrasts with the glitz of typical pop culture references. He’s about that Alyx lifestyle, a high-end fashion brand known for its urban aesthetics. When Drake mentions his Nike crossbody, he hints at keeping a firearm close, blending fashion with functionality in the streets.
The chorus “right foot up, left foot, slide” is a catchy dance instruction, but it’s more than that. It’s Drake showing how easy it is to maneuver through life’s challenges if you know the steps. When he says, “Basically, I’m sayin’ either way, we ’bout to slide”, he’s emphasizing that it doesn’t matter how you move—as long as you keep moving.
The nod to Michael Jackson in “I could dance like Michael Jackson” and “It’s a Thriller in the trap” blends the King of Pop’s universal appeal with the raw realities of trap life. This juxtaposition showcases Drake’s ability to bridge various cultural elements seamlessly.
The second verse delves deeper into Drake’s world, where he mentions “2,000 shawties wanna tie the knot” and “200 shooters on my brother’s block”. Here, he’s balancing fame and loyalty, emphasizing the complexity of his relationships and the constant need to stay vigilant. The line “Got so many opps, I be mistakin’ opps for other opps” highlights the paranoia and constant threat from rivals in his life.
In the latter verses, the repetition of “black leather glove, no sequins” and “buckles on the jacket, it’s Alyx shit” reinforces the gritty, no-nonsense vibe. Drake’s reiteration of the dance steps in “right foot up, left foot, slide” returns to the idea that, no matter the direction, he’s moving forward.
Ending with another homage to Michael Jackson, “I could give you satisfaction,” Drake ties the song’s elements together, combining accessible pop culture with the rawness of street life. This track is a testament to his versatility and his ability to make complex subjects relatable and easy to follow.
