Swalla – Jason Derulo feat. Nicki Minaj & Ty Dolla $ign

“Swalla,” released on February 24, 2017, is a catchy and energetic single by Jason Derulo featuring Nicki Minaj and Ty Dolla $ign. The song quickly became a hit, thanks to its infectious beat, vibrant music video, and the star power of its featured artists. “Swalla” blends elements of pop, dancehall, and hip-hop, creating a track that’s designed to make listeners move. This article explores the song’s creation, musical composition, themes, reception, and impact.

Creation and Background

Jason Derulo, known for his danceable tracks and charismatic performances, teamed up with rap queen Nicki Minaj and singer/rapper Ty Dolla $ign to create “Swalla.” The song was produced by Ricky Reed, a prolific producer who has worked with artists like Meghan Trainor and twenty one pilots. Derulo explained in interviews that he wanted to create a fun and provocative song that would stand out on the dance floor.

The collaboration with Nicki Minaj and Ty Dolla $ign brought unique elements to the track. Minaj’s verse added a fiery rap segment, showcasing her lyrical prowess and bold personality, while Ty Dolla $ign’s smooth vocals provided a contrasting yet complementary vibe.

Musical Composition

“Swalla” is a fusion of various musical styles, combining pop, dancehall, and hip-hop elements. The song’s production is characterized by its bouncy beat, vibrant synths, and catchy hooks. The tropical-infused rhythm gives it a summery feel, making it an instant favorite for parties and clubs.

Intro and Chorus: The song opens with an infectious beat and Derulo’s distinctive vocal style. The chorus, “Swalla-la-la,” is simple yet catchy, making it easy for listeners to sing along.

Verses: Derulo’s verses are playful and flirtatious, with lyrics that revolve around partying, dancing, and enjoying life. His vocal delivery is dynamic, switching between smooth melodies and rhythmic lines.

Nicki Minaj’s Verse: Minaj’s verse is a standout moment in the song. Her rapid-fire delivery and clever wordplay add an edge to the track. She references her career and status in the music industry, delivering lines with confidence and flair.

Ty Dolla $ign’s Contribution: Ty Dolla $ign’s verse adds a laid-back, melodic touch to the song. His smooth voice contrasts with Derulo’s energetic delivery and Minaj’s intense rap, creating a balanced and engaging track.

Themes and Lyrics

The lyrics of “Swalla” are centered around themes of fun, partying, and flirtation. The word “swalla” is a playful slang term that complements the song’s carefree and provocative tone. The track is designed to be a feel-good anthem, encouraging listeners to let loose and enjoy themselves.

Party Atmosphere: The song’s lyrics depict a lively party scene, with references to dancing, drinks, and good times. Lines like “Shimmy shimmy yay, shimmy yay, shimmy ya” contribute to the festive mood.

Flirtation and Confidence: The lyrics also include flirtatious lines and expressions of confidence. Derulo’s playful delivery and Minaj’s assertive rap convey a sense of self-assuredness and fun.

Empowerment and Bravado: Nicki Minaj’s verse adds a layer of empowerment and bravado. Her lyrics highlight her success and dominance in the music industry, reinforcing her image as a powerful and influential artist.

Music Video

The official music video for “Swalla,” directed by Gil Green, is a visual feast that complements the song’s vibrant energy. Released on March 17, 2017, the video features colorful and extravagant scenes, with Derulo, Minaj, and Ty Dolla $ign performing in various eye-catching settings.

Visual Style: The video is characterized by its bold colors, flashy outfits, and dynamic choreography. Scenes transition between neon-lit rooms, tropical-inspired backdrops, and glamorous party settings.

Choreography: Derulo, known for his impressive dance skills, showcases intricate choreography throughout the video. The dance sequences are energetic and well-coordinated, adding to the song’s lively atmosphere.

Nicki Minaj’s Presence: Minaj’s appearance in the video is striking, with her commanding presence and stylish outfits. Her scenes are visually captivating, reinforcing her star power.

Ty Dolla $ign’s Contribution: Ty Dolla $ign’s scenes are more laid-back, featuring him in relaxed, cool settings. His presence adds a contrasting element to the video’s high-energy visuals.

Reception and Impact

“Swalla” received positive reviews from critics and fans alike. The song’s infectious beat and catchy chorus were praised, as well as the chemistry between Derulo, Minaj, and Ty Dolla $ign. It charted in multiple countries, reaching the top ten in several regions, including the UK and Australia.

The music video also garnered millions of views on YouTube, becoming a viral hit. Its vibrant visuals and engaging performances contributed to the song’s popularity, making it a staple in clubs and parties.

Legacy

“Swalla” remains one of Jason Derulo’s most popular songs, continuing to receive airplay and streams years after its release. The collaboration with Nicki Minaj and Ty Dolla $ign added significant value to the track, showcasing the strengths of each artist and creating a memorable hit.

The song’s success further solidified Derulo’s reputation as a hitmaker in the pop and dance music scene. It also highlighted Nicki Minaj’s versatility as an artist, capable of delivering standout verses in various musical styles.

Conclusion

“Swalla” by Jason Derulo, featuring Nicki Minaj and Ty Dolla $ign, is a vibrant and energetic track that has left a lasting impact on the music industry. Its blend of pop, dancehall, and hip-hop elements, combined with catchy lyrics and dynamic performances, make it a timeless party anthem. The song’s success and the visually stunning music video continue to resonate with audiences, ensuring its place in the pantheon of memorable pop hits.

Lyrics:
Drank
Young Money

Love in a thousand different flavors
I wish that I could taste them all tonight
No, I ain’t got no dinner plans
So you should bring all your friends
I swear that a-all y’all my type

All you girls in here, if you’re feeling thirsty
Come on take a sip ’cause you know what I’m servin’, ooh

Shimmy shimmy yay, shimmy yay, shimmy ya (Drank)
Swalla-la-la (Drank)
Swalla-la-la (Swalla-la-la)
Swalla-la-la
Shimmy shimmy yay, shimmy yay, shimmy ya(Drank)
Swalla-la-la (Drank)
Swalla-la-la (Swalla-la-la)
Swalla-la-la
Freaky, freaky gyal
My freaky, freaky gyal

Shimmy shimmy shimmy yay, shimmy yah
Bad girls gon’ swalla-la-la
Bust down on my wrist in this bitch
My pinky-ring bigger than his
Met her out in Beverly Hills, ay
Dolla got too many girls, ay
Met her out in Beverly Hills
All she wear is red bottom heels
When she back it up, put it on the Snap
When she droppin’ low, put it on the Gram
DJ poppin’, she gon’ swallow that
Champagne poppin’, she gon’ swallow that

All you girls in here, if you’re feeling thirsty
Come on take a sip ’cause you know what I’m servin’, ooh

Bad gyal no swalla nuttin,word to the Dalai Lama
He know I’m a fashion killa, word to John Galliano
He copping that Valentino, ain’t no telling me “no”
I’m that bitch, and he know, he know
How y’all wifing these thots? You don’t get wins for that
I’m having another good year, we don’t get blimps for that
Pussy game still cold, we don’t get minks for that
When I’m poppin’ them bananas, we don’t link chimps for that
I gave these bitches two years, now your time’s up
Bless her heart, she throwing shots but every line sucks
I’m in that cherry red foreign with the brown guts
My shit slappin’ like dude did LeBron’s nuts

All you girls in here, if you’re feeling thirsty
Come on take a sip ’cause you know what I’m servin’

Shimmy shimmy yay, shimmy yay, shimmy ya(My love) (Drank)
Swalla-la-la (My love) (Drank)
Swalla-la-la (Swalla-la-la)
Swalla-la-la
Shimmy shimmy yay, shimmy yay, shimmy ya(Kyuh!) (Drank)
Swalla-la-la (Drank)
Swalla-la-la (Swalla-la-la)
Swalla-la-la

Young Money
Swalla-la-la
J.D
Freaky, freaky gyal
Swalla-la-la
My freaky, freaky gyal
Swalla-la-la
My freaky, freaky gyal
Swalla-la-la
My freaky, freaky gyal
Derulo