Girls Like You – Maroon 5 ft. Cardi B

Released on May 30, 2018, Maroon 5’s “Girls Like You” featuring Cardi B is a dynamic blend of pop rock and hip-hop that has left an indelible mark on the music scene. The song’s catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and empowering music video have made it a standout track, resonating with a wide audience and celebrating the strength and diversity of women. This collaboration not only showcases Maroon 5’s versatility but also highlights Cardi B’s unique flair, making “Girls Like You” a cultural touchstone in contemporary pop music.

The Making of “Girls Like You”
“Girls Like You” was written by Adam Levine, Starrah, Gian Stone, Cirkut, Jason Evigan, and Brittany Talia Hazzard. It was produced by Cirkut and Evigan. Initially released as part of Maroon 5’s sixth studio album, Red Pill Blues, the song was later re-released as a single featuring Cardi B. This version added a new dimension to the track, blending Maroon 5’s signature pop-rock sound with Cardi B’s energetic rap verses.

The song’s creation was a collaborative effort, with Adam Levine aiming to create a tribute to the important women in his life. The addition of Cardi B’s verse added a fresh perspective, bringing her bold and unapologetic style to the track. Her contribution helped elevate the song, giving it an edge that appealed to a broader audience.

Lyrical Themes and Emotional Resonance
“Girls Like You” is a love letter to women, celebrating their strength, resilience, and the vital roles they play in the lives of men. The lyrics reflect themes of love, appreciation, and partnership, with Levine singing about the impact of a significant other who makes life better and more meaningful. The chorus, “‘Cause girls like you run ‘round with guys like me / ‘Til sundown, when I come through / I need a girl like you,” emphasizes the need for a partner who complements and completes him.

Cardi B’s verse adds a layer of empowerment and modern-day romance, blending humor and honesty. Her lines, “Not too long ago, I was dancing for dollars / Know it’s really real if I let you meet my mama,” juxtapose her past with her present, highlighting her journey and her criteria for meaningful relationships. This juxtaposition enhances the song’s depth, making it relatable to a wide range of listeners.

The Official Music Video
Directed by David Dobkin, the official music video for “Girls Like You” was released concurrently with the single on May 30, 2018. The video is a visual celebration of women, featuring an array of influential and diverse female figures from various fields, including athletes, actresses, musicians, activists, and more. Notable appearances include Jennifer Lopez, Ellen DeGeneres, Gal Gadot, Millie Bobby Brown, and Olympic gymnast Aly Raisman, among others.

The video’s concept is simple yet powerful. It showcases Adam Levine singing and playing guitar in a circular stage setup, with the camera rotating around him. As the camera pans around, different women join him on stage, symbolizing the support and presence of women in his life and by extension, in the lives of men everywhere. The minimalist background and rotating camera focus the viewer’s attention on the diverse array of women, highlighting their importance and celebrating their contributions.

Cardi B’s segment is equally impactful, as she delivers her verse with confidence and charisma. Her appearance adds vibrancy and energy to the video, further emphasizing the theme of female empowerment. The video concludes with a heartfelt moment where Levine’s wife, Behati Prinsloo, and their daughter join him on stage, reinforcing the personal nature of the song.

Commercial Success and Chart Performance
“Girls Like You” achieved remarkable commercial success, topping the charts in numerous countries, including the United States, Canada, and New Zealand. In the United States, the song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, where it stayed for seven consecutive weeks. It also dominated the Adult Contemporary and Adult Top 40 charts, highlighting its broad appeal across different radio formats.

The song’s success was propelled by its widespread streaming and digital sales. It became one of the most-streamed songs of 2018, amassing billions of streams across platforms like Spotify and YouTube. The music video, with its star-studded cast and empowering message, also contributed significantly to the song’s popularity, garnering billions of views on YouTube.

Critical Reception
“Girls Like You” received generally positive reviews from music critics, who praised its catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Cardi B’s standout feature. Critics noted the song’s appeal as a pop anthem, with its infectious chorus and relatable themes. The music video was also lauded for its celebration of women and its inclusive approach, showcasing a diverse range of female role models.

Some reviewers highlighted the strategic collaboration between Maroon 5 and Cardi B as a key factor in the song’s success, noting how Cardi B’s energetic presence added a fresh and contemporary edge to the track. The combination of Levine’s smooth vocals and Cardi B’s dynamic rap verses created a unique and compelling listening experience.

Cultural Impact and Legacy
“Girls Like You” has left a lasting impact on pop culture, not only as a successful single but also as a celebration of women’s contributions and achievements. The music video’s inclusive and empowering message resonated with audiences worldwide, making it a viral sensation and a symbol of female empowerment in the entertainment industry.

The song’s success also highlighted Maroon 5’s ability to evolve and remain relevant in the ever-changing music landscape. By collaborating with contemporary artists like Cardi B, the band demonstrated their versatility and willingness to experiment with different genres and styles.

Moreover, “Girls Like You” has been used in various media and events to promote themes of equality and empowerment, further cementing its legacy as a modern pop classic. Its influence extends beyond the music industry, inspiring discussions about representation and the celebration of women in all spheres of life.

Conclusion
Maroon 5’s “Girls Like You” featuring Cardi B is more than just a chart-topping hit; it is a powerful celebration of women and a testament to the enduring appeal of pop music. With its catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and empowering music video, the song has resonated with audiences worldwide, making it a cultural phenomenon. As a tribute to the strength and diversity of women, “Girls Like You” continues to inspire and uplift, ensuring its place as a modern classic in the annals of pop music history.