Ariana Grande’s latest album, petal, has been described by the artist herself as “feral.” This description becomes evident in her new track “like i do,” where Grande showcases a raw and unfiltered side of herself, delivering one of her most intense, confident, and provocative songs to date.
Although “like i do” may initially seem straightforward, Grande’s lyrics delve deeper, hinting at underlying themes. Set against a dark R&B backdrop with sharp synths and dramatic elements, Grande seductively entices a presumed lover, referencing her past hit “Break Free” with a playful linguistic twist fueled by desire. “Extra, extra, buy one, take me,” she sings. “Sexy how you come to see, it’s true, you need me like I you, ‘cause no one f*cks you like I do.”
Even the chorus of the song hints at a more sinister undertone, as Grande subtly addresses the media and her critics, teasingly acknowledging how their negative feedback inadvertently fuels her success.
On the opening verse, Grande boldly declares, “I’m making cents off of your nonsense. All that sh*t talk keeps me well-fed. Through thick and thin, you’re so locked in, you hate to love me.” This highlights the paradoxical relationship between artists and their critics, revealing how even the most vocal detractors can inadvertently contribute to an artist’s popularity.
Prior to the release of petal, Grande premiered “like I do” during her Eternal Sunshine Tour in Montreal on July 30, showcasing the song’s undeniable impact and resonance with her audience.
Ariana Grande’s “Like I Do” Lyrics
Explore the complete lyrics of Grande’s latest track below.
Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah
Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah
Ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah, ah
Ah, ah, ah, ah (Mm-mm), ah, ah, ah, ah
I’m making friends with my consequence (Ah, ah, ah, ah)
Way up high like my consciousness (Ah, ah, ah, ah)
Keep my heels tall, my ego small
But I’m still Grande (Ah, ah, ah, ah)
I’m making cents off of your nonsense (Ah, ah, ah, ah)
All that shit talk keeps me well-fed (Ah, ah, ah, ah)
Through thick and thin, you’re so locked in (Ah, ah, ah, ah)
You hate to love me (Ah, ah, ah, ah)
Extra, extra, buy one, take me
Sexy how you come to see, it’s true
You need me like I you
‘Cause no one fucks you like I do
Extra, extra, buy one, take me
Sexy how you come to see, it’s true
You need me like I you
‘Cause no one fucks you like I do, yeah
I’ve been busy keeping your girl inspired
I know my brain gives you ideas
Stay on your mind like all the time
Yeah, you still watching from the sides
Yeah, you still, still show up first in line
Yeah, you act like all your love is mine
Still, still mine, baby
I guess you really love me, yeah
Extra, extra, buy one, take me
Sexy how you come to see, it’s true
You need me like I you (Mm-mm)
‘Cause no one fucks you like I do (Oh yeah)
Extra, extra, buy one, take me
Sexy how you come to see, it’s true
You need me like I you
‘Cause no one fucks you like I do, yeah
Mm-mm, mm-mm
Ooh, ooh
Mm-mm
Oh, yeah
Oh, oh, oh
Oh-oh, oh
Oh, oh (Ah), oh (Ah)
Mm, ah
