Girls (Rita Ora song)


"Girls" is a song by British singer Rita Ora, featuring American rapper Cardi B, American singer Bebe Rexha and British singer Charli XCX. The single was released on 11 May 2018 by Atlantic Records. It was written by Ora, Klenord Raphael, Ali Tamposi, Rexha, Jonny Coffer, Jordan Thorpe, Belcalis Almanzar, Brian Lee, Watt and Benjamin Diehl, while the production was handled by Ben Billions, Coffer and Watt.

Background

The collaboration was announced on 4 May 2018. Rita Ora described the song as an "empowering anthem":

Composition

"Girls" is a pop song that comprises a hip hop-influenced beat. The lyrics explore themes of same-sex attraction.

Music video

The music video for "Girls" was released on 6 June 2018. It was directed by Helmi.

Live performances

Ora performed the song live for the first time at BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend on 28 May 2017, with Charli XCX and Raye, one year before its release as an official single. Her first televised performance was on the season finale of Germany's Next Topmodel on 24 May 2018.

Criticism and controversy

American singers Hayley Kiyoko and Kehlani, who identify as gay and queer respectively, criticized the song for being "harmful" to the LGBTQ community. Kiyoko referred to the song in a tweet she posted as being "tone-deaf", stating that the song "fueled the male gaze while marginalizing the idea of women loving women." Kehlani voiced her opinion in a series of tweets, "I have an incredible song out with one of the artists, and would love to work with the other three as well. I have met them all and respect them. There. Were. Harmful. Lyrics." She concluded her tweets with: "Every artist on the song is fantastic, and very much loved and supported by me... by all of us. But this isn't about talent, it's about choice." Several days later, Ora apologized for unintended offense. Ora responded to criticism, as she wrote: "Girls was written to represent my truth and is an accurate account of a very real and honest experience in my life... I have had romantic relationship with women and men throughout my life and this is my personal journey".

Track listing

  1. "Girls" – 3:41
  1. "Girls" – 4:20
  1. "Girls" – 3:45

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Certifications

Release history