Consideration

I remember the first time I really listened to Rihanna’s 'Consideration' from her ANTI album. It’s such an anthem of self-possession, and honestly, I always thought it perfectly encapsulated the edgy, confident vibe of *ANTI*. But then I stumbled upon the incredible backstory, and it completely blew my mind! Learning that SZA, one of my absolute favorite artists, actually penned this track before it landed with Rihanna? It made me appreciate the song on a whole new level. It truly shows how powerful a song's journey can be, and how one moment can boost an artist's career trajectory significantly. The story goes that SZA wrote 'Consideration' and it was intended for her own project. However, as often happens in the music industry, decisions are made by labels. In this case, SZA's label decided to give the track to Rihanna. Can you imagine the mix of feelings? On one hand, your work is being recognized by a global superstar; on the other, you're letting go of something you poured your heart into. Fortunately for us, Rihanna, with her impeccable taste, not only recorded it but also decided to feature SZA on the track. This collaboration was a pivotal moment, truly boosting SZA's career and introducing her unique voice to a massive audience who might not have discovered her otherwise. It’s a testament to Rihanna’s vision and SZA’s undeniable talent. Now, let's talk about those lyrics. When I listen to 'Consideration,' I hear a powerful declaration of independence and self-worth. The opening lines, 'I got to do things my own way, darling / Will you ever let me? Will you ever look at me like that again?' immediately set the tone. It feels like a plea, but also a firm demand for autonomy. It’s about someone who’s tired of being underestimated or controlled, insisting on their right to forge their own path. This resonates so much with SZA’s artistry – she’s always been about raw honesty and doing things her way. Then there’s the recurring line, 'I need you to say please.' For me, this isn't just about politeness; it's about demanding respect and acknowledgement. It’s saying, 'My time, my effort, my presence – it's valuable. Don't take it for granted.' This theme of asserting boundaries and valuing oneself is something I think many of us can relate to, whether in relationships, work, or creative pursuits. It’s a reminder that you don't have to compromise your worth for anyone. And knowing SZA wrote it, it feels like her asserting her place in the industry, even as the song was shifting hands. Rihanna's delivery, especially on an album as revolutionary as *ANTI*, adds another layer. She embodies this defiance perfectly. The song becomes not just SZA's personal struggle but a universal anthem for anyone pushing back against expectations. It’s about demanding genuine partnership and understanding, not just blind compliance. The blend of their voices and artistic energies truly makes 'Consideration' a standout track, a powerful statement that has only grown in meaning for me over the years. If you haven't really dug into the lyrics before, I highly recommend giving it another listen with this backstory in mind – it completely transforms the experience!