Released: 2024
SZA’s song “BMF” embodies the complex and magnetic allure of romance mixed with themes of wealth and danger. It’s a vivid portrayal of the duality found in relationships and lifestyles characterized by intensity and desire. Throughout the song, SZA explores the idea of living in the fast lane, wrapped in passion and ambition, while grappling with the notion of love’s ephemeral nature.
The song opens with a hook that introduces the charismatic persona of the young man SZA is attracted to, someone who embodies both physical allure and a compelling sense of style. By referring to him as “the boy from South Detroit,” she hints at his tough, resilient character, which only heightens his attractiveness. His charm is irresistible, depicted through SZA’s candid admission that she can’t keep her “panties from dropping,” a colloquial way of saying she’s powerfully drawn to him.
Moving into the first verse, SZA captures the thrill and instability of the relationship. She mentions the man’s quick pace in life and the challenges of keeping up with his falsehoods, reflecting a dynamic where the excitement and danger intermingle. The line “I’m not the one, but we can still pretend this can be my man” suggests a playful, albeit realistic acknowledgment that while they may not be perfectly suited, there’s still fun to be had.
As she progresses, SZA talks about her expectations for honesty and integrity. The lyric “Compliment my energy” implies a desire for genuine recognition of her own strengths and personality, while also laying down her non-negotiable terms: “All I ask is don’t make me pull up and get to dumping,” a vivid metaphor that illustrates her willingness to stand up for herself if pushed too far.
In the next part, SZA shifts to describing a different figure, one from the “West side of Compton,” and highlights a deeper level of street credibility and physical allure. The mention of “Crip walkin'” adds a cultural and geographical specificity to the persona, a nod to a distinctive dance associated with the Crip gang, thus underlining a raw and rugged street identity.
The lyrics then paint a picture of her experiences with him, noting the powerful combination of vulnerability and protection he offers. The reference to “Slauson” and “Mr. Handle It” embeds the story further in Los Angeles, linking SZA’s character’s loyalty to geographical roots, with promises of steadfast support during tumultuous times.
In another verse, SZA juxtaposes her uniqueness against the women her lover typically engages with. She declares herself “hella different” and reinforces her credibility and resilience, suggesting a stronger, more committed role than those who’ve come before. “Can be your ride or die” echoes the timeless archetype of unwavering loyalty in love.
As the narrative evolves, she alludes to a lifestyle of indulgence with lines like “Blowin’ money fast,” where material extravagance hints at potential consequences, including “we might crash.” There’s an urgency to live fully and boldly despite the inherent risks, captured in the phrase “I’ll make it last, we’ll be,” symbolizing her hope for permanence amidst chaos.
Towards the conclusion, SZA continues exploring a relationship brimming with both thrills and depth. “Ecstasy is just a pill away” hints at the duality of pleasure and danger, underscoring the precariousness of living on the edge. Yet, there’s also a playfulness in “be your Jane,” evoking the adventurous spirit akin to Tarzan and Jane.
Finally, as she closes the song, the blend of admiration and danger coalesce in her depiction of this enigmatic figure. The repeated phrase “young and he fine and he tall and he handsome” reflects a continuous admiration intertwined with elements of unpredictability and risk, which forms the crux of this riveting and immersive track.
