Joey Bada$$ and Chlöe wonder if their admirer wants to take things to the next level in “Tell Me.”
On the jazzy R&B meets hip-hop production, Joey Bada$$ uses his signature polished cadence to get a clear understanding of his love interest’s motives. The 2000 hitmaker is reluctant to trust this person after being played by her in the past.
For instance, he raps “Used to pass a n***a by like tumbleweed / You used to play me to the side ’till I got a little buzz like a bumblebee / Now you can’t get enough of me / Why you fallin’ in love with me?“
As the song progresses, the New York rapper continues to ask about this woman’s feelings toward him and questions if it’s because of his success. Although he suspects his confidence may be a factor in her change of heart, he gives her the chance to be upfront. Joey emphasizes the importance of time, reminding listeners that it shouldn’t be wasted.
Lines like “Tell me if you really just wanna build or really just tryna chill / Ain’t no time to kill / Baby speak up,” tie the song’s message together, driving home the critical theme of honesty and clarity in relationships.
“Tell Me” comes on the heels of Joey Bada$$’s single “Passports and Suitcases (featuring KayCyy).”
