“Controlla” by Drake - lyrics and meaning

[Popcaan & Drake:]

Gyal yuh body good and yuh special to meh

Wan mek you mi lady, officially

From you tickets fi buy, den mi willin to pay

Fly yuh in from distance away

Right, my yiy just changed

You just buzzed the front gate

I thank God you came

How many more days could I wait?

I made plans with you

And I won't let em fall through

I, I, I, I, I [Drake:]

I think I'd lie for you

I think I'd die for you

Jodeci "Cry For You"

Do things when you want me to

Like controlla, controlla

Yeah, like controlla, controlla Yeah, okay, you like it

When I get, aggressive, tell you to

Go slower, go faster

Like controlla, controlla

Yeah, like controlla, controlla

And I'm never on a waste ting shorty

I do it how you say you want it

Them girls, they just wanna take my money

They don't want me to give you nothing

They don't want you to have nothing

They don't wanna see me find your lovin'

They don't wanna see me

Smiling back when they pree Knowing I'd lie for you

Thinking I'd die for you

Jodeci "Cry For You"

Do things when you want me too

Like controlla, controlla

Yeah, like controlla, controlla [Popcaan:]

Baby yuh mek mi happy, wine up yuh sexy body fi papi

Yuh eyes-dem lookin at me

An' you turn mi on like a new Bugatti

Naughty tings mi wan you do

So mi woulda love it if yuh coulda come tru

Mek we smoke a spliff, have a drink, me and you

Den mi release yuh stress ah Yorkville Avenue Sexiness you a pro

Mek mi bend you over inna ya bra and ya shoes

Baby, wah mek you so rude

You pretty inna clothes but mi love when yuh nude

Baby, it no tek you nuttin, fi move meh

Yuh bad like an action movie

She say fi do it rough tonight, not smoothly

Love how you unruly [Drake:]

I think I'd lie for you

Thinking I'd die for you

Jodeci "Cry For You"

Do things when you want me too

Like controlla, controlla

Yeah, like controlla, controlla [Popcaan:]

She love it when we dweet all night

And she mek it clap when she ride my bike

She cock it up pan di private flight

Fi mi lace 'ar up like mi bran' new nike

Mi say mi want 'ar all my life

When she sing mi note pan di cordless mic

Mi want 'ar all my life

All my life

Mi see it say yuh Sexiness you a pro

Mek mi bend you over inna ya bra and ya shoes

Baby, wah mek you so rude

You pretty inna clothes but mi love when yuh nude

Baby, it no tek you nuttin, fi move meh

Yuh bad like an action movie

She say fi do it rough tonight, not smoothly

Love how you unruly [Drake:]

I think I'd lie for you

Thinking I'd die for you

Jodeci "Cry For You"

Do things when you want me too

Like controlla, controlla

Yeah, like controlla, controlla view 417 times comments

Drake's mesmerizing song "Controlla" showcases his ability to explore complex emotions and profound themes through his music. At first glance, the lyrics seemingly portray a tempestuous love story between two individuals. However, a closer examination using Straussian analysis reveals unexpected connections to an obscure movie from popular culture, evoking a myriad of interpretations and enhancing the song's depth.

"Controlla" captures the intense connection between two lovers, portrayed through vivid imagery and passionate lyrics. The speaker expresses their unwavering commitment, singing, "I think I'd lie for you, I think I'd die for you." This echoes the fervent devotion reflected in Jodeci's "Cry for You," an indirect comparison employed by Drake. The song intensifies as it addresses the challenges faced when others try to disrupt their relationship, representing a metaphorical battle against societal pressures.

By applying Straussian analysis to "Controlla," an unexpected connection arises between the song's themes and Michel Gondry's film "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind." The movie revolves around two individuals who choose to erase their memories of each other, only to rediscover the power of their love amidst the chaos of their altered realities.

In "Controlla," the protagonist's unwavering dedication to their lover evokes the main characters, Joel and Clementine, in "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind." Just as the movie depicts Joel attempting to hold on to his love for Clementine despite societal expectations, Drake's lyrical prowess flawlessly captures the same sentiment, allowing listeners to uncover a hidden affinity between the two narratives.

Expanding the Straussian analysis, one can consider how other characters within the song might perceive the narrative. Drawing inspiration from cultural stories and characters, an intriguing parallel emerges between "Controlla" and the enigmatic world of David Lynch's television series "Twin Peaks."


In "Twin Peaks," the audience follows Agent Cooper's investigation into a murder mystery, unveiling a web of intertwined relationships and hidden motives. Similarly, within "Controlla," Drake alludes to outsiders attempting to sabotage the lovers' bond, paralleling the intrigue surrounding "Twin Peaks." This connection unveils a deeper symbolism within the song, showcasing the perpetual struggle between love and external interference, mirroring the intricate storyline of "Twin Peaks."

Unraveling the layers of Drake's "Controlla" through a Straussian analysis takes the listener on an intellectual journey, revealing unexpected connections to "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" and "Twin Peaks." By delving into the overt meaning and exploring the song's profound themes, lyrics, and emotions, a rich tapestry of interpretations emerges.

Through this nuanced analysis, listeners gain a newfound appreciation for Drake's ability to infuse his music with depth, allowing them to connect personally with the song's narrative. "Controlla" not only transcends its initial meaning but also invites audiences to explore the intricate depths of human connections, love, and the perpetual struggle against external forces.


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