Buttons – The Pussycat Dolls ft. Snoop Dogg

In the realm of mid-2000s pop and R&B, few tracks exuded as much sultry confidence and infectious energy as “Buttons” by The Pussycat Dolls, featuring the charismatic rapper Snoop Dogg. Released on March 20, 2006, as the second single from their debut album, PCD, “Buttons” quickly became a defining song of its era. With its sultry beat, memorable chorus, and a standout feature by Snoop Dogg, the track solidified The Pussycat Dolls’ place in pop culture and continues to be celebrated for its bold, confident style.

The Birth of a Hit
“The Pussycat Dolls” was a group that emerged from the world of burlesque and dance, transforming into a global pop sensation. Led by choreographer Robin Antin, the group featured Nicole Scherzinger as the lead vocalist, with other members including Ashley Roberts, Melody Thornton, Carmit Bachar, and Jessica Sutta. Their sound was a blend of pop, R&B, and dance, with an emphasis on glamour and sensuality.

“Buttons” was produced by Timbaland and Danja, who were known for their innovative production techniques and hit-making abilities. The song was written by Timbaland, Danja, Chris Ferraro, and Danja, and it became a significant part of the Pussycat Dolls’ debut album PCD. The track was released as a single following the success of their debut single “Don’t Cha,” and it quickly gained traction for its distinctive sound and provocative lyrics.

Musical Composition and Lyrics
“Buttons” is characterized by its distinctive beat, which combines elements of R&B, pop, and hip-hop. The song opens with a sultry, bass-heavy instrumental that sets the tone for the track. The beat is driven by a steady rhythm and a prominent bass line, which is complemented by Timbaland’s signature production style. The song’s instrumentation creates a groove that is both danceable and infectious, making it a favorite in clubs and on the dance floor.

The lyrics of “Buttons” are bold and confident, showcasing the Pussycat Dolls’ signature style of empowerment and allure. The song’s chorus, with its catchy hook, invites listeners to “push the buttons” and revel in the thrill of flirtation and attraction. The verses describe a woman who is in control of her own sensuality and is not afraid to express her desires. The lyrics emphasize self-confidence and independence, aligning with the Pussycat Dolls’ persona as empowered and glamorous women.

The Role of Snoop Dogg
The inclusion of Snoop Dogg in the song added an extra layer of appeal and star power. Known for his smooth flow and charismatic presence, Snoop Dogg’s verse in “Buttons” complements the track’s sultry vibe. His rap verse is laid-back yet confident, providing a contrast to the Pussycat Dolls’ vocal performance. Snoop Dogg’s feature brings an element of hip-hop credibility to the track, enhancing its appeal to a broader audience.

Snoop Dogg’s involvement in “Buttons” was part of a trend during the mid-2000s where pop and hip-hop artists frequently collaborated. His presence in the song added to its commercial appeal and helped it reach a wider audience. The collaboration was well-received by fans and critics alike, contributing to the song’s success.

The Music Video
The music video for “Buttons,” directed by Marc Klasfeld, is a visual feast that perfectly complements the song’s sultry and glamorous vibe. The video features the Pussycat Dolls performing a highly-choreographed dance routine in a nightclub setting, surrounded by a stylish and glamorous ambiance. The choreography, which is a hallmark of the Pussycat Dolls’ performances, is bold and confident, showcasing the group’s dance prowess.

In the video, Nicole Scherzinger takes center stage, delivering the song’s vocals with confidence and flair. The visual style of the video is sleek and sophisticated, with a focus on fashion and sensuality. The Pussycat Dolls are dressed in glamorous outfits that highlight their physical allure, and the video’s cinematography emphasizes the opulence and excitement of the nightclub setting.

Snoop Dogg’s appearance in the video is brief but impactful. He makes a stylish entrance, adding a touch of star power to the already glamorous scene. His presence in the video helps to bridge the gap between pop and hip-hop, further solidifying the song’s crossover appeal.

Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, “Buttons” received widespread acclaim from critics and fans. The song was praised for its catchy hook, confident lyrics, and stylish production. It became a commercial success, reaching the top ten in several countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. The track’s success further established The Pussycat Dolls as a major force in the pop and R&B genres.

“Buttons” has continued to be a popular track in the years since its release. It remains a staple in the Pussycat Dolls’ discography and is often cited as one of their signature songs. The track’s blend of pop, R&B, and hip-hop elements has helped it maintain its appeal across different musical genres and generations.

The song’s influence can also be seen in the way it set trends in both music and fashion. The Pussycat Dolls’ glamorous and confident style, showcased in “Buttons,” has had a lasting impact on pop culture. The track’s success paved the way for other artists to explore similar themes of empowerment and sensuality in their music.

Conclusion
“Buttons” by The Pussycat Dolls featuring Snoop Dogg is a quintessential mid-2000s pop and R&B anthem that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its catchy beat, confident lyrics, and stylish music video make it a standout track in the Pussycat Dolls’ discography. The collaboration with Snoop Dogg added an extra layer of appeal, bridging the gap between pop and hip-hop. As a song that celebrates empowerment, glamour, and sensuality, “Buttons” remains a defining moment in the pop music landscape and a testament to The Pussycat Dolls’ enduring impact on the industry.

What it do, baby boo?

Yeah, lil’ mama, you lookin’ good
I see you wanna play with a player from the hood
Come holla’ at me, you got it like that
Big Snoop Dogg with the lead Pussycat
I show you how it go down
Yeah, I wanna throw down (Uh-huh)
Me and you one-on-one, treat it like a showdown
You look at me and I look at you
I’m reachin’ for your shirt, what you want me to do?

Typical ain’t hardly the type I fall for
I like when the physical
Don’t leave me askin’ for more
I’m a sexy mama (Mama)
Who knows just how to get what I wanna (Wanna)
What I wanna do is spring this on ya (On ya)
Back up all of the things that I told ya (Told ya, told ya, told ya)
You been sayin’ all the right things all night long
But I can’t seem to get you over here to help take this off

Baby, can’t you see? (See)
These clothes aren’t fittin’ on me (Me)
And the heat comin’ from this beat? (Beat)
I’m about to blow, I don’t think you know

You say you’re a big boy, but I can’t agree
‘Cause the love you said you had ain’t been put on me
I wonder (Wonder) if I’m just too much for you
Wonder (Wonder) if my kiss don’t make you just
Wonder (Wonder), what I got next for you
What you wanna do? (Do)
Take the chance to recognize that this could be yours
I can see, just like most guys, that your game don’t please

Baby, can’t you see? (See)
These clothes are fittin’ on me (Me)
And the heat comin’ from this beat? (Beat)
I’m about to blow, I don’t think you know

I’m tellin’ you to loosen up my buttons, babe (Uh-huh, oh woah)
But you keep frontin’ (Uh)
Sayin’ what you’re gon’ do to me (Uh-huh, oh-oh-oh-oh)
But I ain’t seen nothin’
I’m tellin’ you to loosen up my buttons, babe (Uh-huh)
But you keep frontin’ (Uh)
Sayin’ what you’re gon’ do to me (Uh-huh!)
But I ain’t seen nothin’

Now you can get what you want, but I need what I need
Now let me tell you what’s crack-a-lackin’ ‘fore I proceed
I’ma show you where to put it at
PCD on me, yeah, I thought I saw a puddy-cat
Now roll with the big dog, all six of y’all on me
Now tell me how it feel, babydoll
Ashley, Nicole, Carmit, Jessica, Kimberly, Melody, you tellin’ me?

Loosen up my buttons, babe
Loosen up my buttons, babe
Baby, won’t you loosen up my buttons, babe?
Loosen up my buttons, babe
Come on baby, loosen up my buttons, babe
Loosen up my buttons, babe
Baby, won’t you loosen up my buttons, babe?
Loosen up my buttons, babe

I’m tellin’ you to loosen up my buttons, babe (Uh-huh)
But you keep frontin’ (Uh)
Sayin’ what you’re gon’ do to me (Uh-huh)
But I ain’t seen nothin’
I’m tellin’ you to loosen up my buttons, babe (Uh-huh)
But you keep frontin’ (Uh)
Sayin’ what you’re gon’ do to me (Uh-huh)
But I ain’t seen nothin’ (Oh, oh, oh)
I’m tellin’ you to loosen up my buttons, babe (Uh-huh)
But you keep frontin’ (Uh, oh)
Sayin’ what you’re gon’ do to me (Uh-huh)
But I ain’t seen nothin’
I’m tellin’ you to loosen up my buttons, babe (Uh-huh, oh)
But you keep frontin’ (Uh)
Sayin’ what you’re gon’ do to me (Uh-huh)
But I ain’t seen nothin’

Snoop Dogg The Pussycat Dolls