Big Sean returns the favor to his old pal Ariana Grande.
While fans are still gathering their thoughts vis-a-vis DJ Khaled‘s eclectic Father Of Asahd, fans have concluded that Big Sean‘s penultimate solo track “Thank You” stands among the highlights. Approached as a stream–consciousness, “Thank You” finds Sean reflecting on his rise to rap dominance, fering heartfelt praise to those who helped along the way. Among them, DJ Khaled, whom Sean grounds with a little backstory for context. “Who would’ve thought that DJ that was on 6 to 10 right there on 99 Jamz, screamin’, “We the best” would’ve had all the execs eatin’ right out his hands?” he ponders, making it known that much Khaled’s influence extends beyond the scope the public eye.
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As the song concludes, Sean takes a moment to acknowledge, without naming names course, the impact Ariana Grande and Jhene Aiko. While the latter marked his most recent relationship, the lyric ultimately centers around the former, given the direct reference to “Thank U, Next.” “Plus I gotta thank my exes on some “thank u, next” shit,” he raps. “And all the old times that gave me new perspectives.” Though hardly direct, those who choose to follow the social courting rituals celebrity couples will likely find themselves donning the detective’s cap once again.
In any case, it’s refreshing to see Sean opt for cordiality, and one has to wonder if either Grande or Aiko will acknowledge his acknowledgment. Especially if “Thank You” is meant to signal the arrival a newfound Sean season, as has recently been teased by the Detroit rapper’s increased activity. From the sound it, his new deal will serve to launch Don Life Records, and help put emerging Detroit rappers on the map as Khaled once helped do for him. What do you think?