“One Dance” by Drake featuring Wizkid and Kyla, released in 2016 as part of the album Views, quickly became a global phenomenon. Its infectious rhythm and catchy lyrics cemented its place as a dancehall-inspired pop classic. Let’s delve into the lyrics of “One Dance” to understand its simple yet captivating message.
The Lyrics of “One Dance”
Here are the full lyrics to Drake’s hit song, “One Dance”:
> Baby, I like your style
> Grips on your waist
> Front way, back way
> You know that I don’t play
> Streets not safe
> But I never run away
> Even when I’m away
> Oti, oti, there’s never much love when we go OT
> I pray to make it back in one piece
> I pray, I pray
>
> That’s why I need a one dance
> Got a Hennessy in my hand
> One more time ‘fore I go
> Higher powers taking a hold on me
> I need a one dance
> Got a Hennessy in my hand
> One more time ‘fore I go
> Higher powers taking a hold on me
>
> Baby, I like your style
>
> Strength and guidance
> All that I’m wishing for my friends
> Nobody makes it from my ends
> I had to bust up the silence
> You know you gotta stick by me
> Soon as you see the text, reply me
> I don’t wanna spend time fighting
> We’ve got no time
>
> And that’s why I need a one dance
> Got a Hennessy in my hand
> One more time ‘fore I go
> Higher powers taking a hold on me
> I need a one dance
> Got a Hennessy in my hand
> One more time ‘fore I go
> Higher powers taking a hold on me
>
> Got a pretty girl and she love me long time
> Wine it, wine it, very long time
> Oh yeah, very long time
> Back up, back up, back up and wine it
> Back up, back up and wine it, girl
> Back up, back up, back up and wine it
> Oh yeah, very long time
> Back up, back up and wine it, girl
>
> Tell me, I need to know, where do you wanna go?
> ‘Cause if you’re down, I’ll take it slow
> Make you lose control
> Where, where, where
> Where, where, where, where
> Oh yeah, very long time
> Where, where, where
> Back up, back up and wine it, girl
> Where, where, where, where
> ‘Cause if you’re down
> Back up, back up and
> ‘Cause if you’re down
> Back up, back up and
> ‘Cause if you’re down
> Back up, back up and
>
> I need a one dance
> Got a Hennessy in my hand
> One more time ‘fore I go
> Higher powers taking a hold on me
> I need a one dance
> Got a Hennessy in my hand
> One more time ‘fore I go
> Higher powers taking a hold on me
Decoding the Meaning Behind “One Dance”
While seemingly simple, “One Dance” lyrics touch upon themes of escapism, desire, and the need for connection amidst a chaotic world.
-
Escapism and Release: The repeated line “I need a one dance” emphasizes a desire to escape from pressures and find release on the dance floor. Coupled with “Hennessy in my hand,” it suggests using dance and alcohol as temporary escapes. The phrase “Higher powers taking a hold on me” could imply surrendering to the moment and letting go of control.
-
Desire and Connection: The opening lines “Baby, I like your style / Grips on your waist / Front way, back way” are direct and sensual, highlighting physical attraction and the intimacy of dance. The repeated invitation to “wine it” (a dance move) further reinforces this theme of physical connection and flirtation.
-
Context of “Streets Not Safe”: Lines like “Streets not safe / But I never run away” and “Oti, oti, there’s never much love when we go OT / I pray to make it back in one piece” offer a glimpse into a potentially dangerous or stressful environment (“OT” likely referring to “out of town” or “outside”). The “one dance” becomes even more significant as a temporary refuge from these external pressures.
-
Simplicity and Repetition for Impact: The lyrical structure of “One Dance” is intentionally repetitive. This simplicity, combined with the infectious beat, is key to its catchiness and widespread appeal. The repetition of “One dance,” “Hennessy in my hand,” and “One more time ‘fore I go” creates a hypnotic effect, mirroring the intoxicating nature of the experience described in the song.
In conclusion, “One Dance” lyrics, though concise, effectively convey a longing for release, connection, and a brief escape from the challenges of everyday life. Its global success is a testament to the universal appeal of these themes, wrapped in an irresistible dancehall rhythm.
