The Meaning Behind The Song: What’Chu Like by Da Brat
As a music critic, I have always been fascinated by the intricate layers and hidden meanings behind songs. One such song that has always stood out to me is “What’Chu Like” by Da Brat. I first heard this song on a lazy Sunday afternoon, when I was randomly scrolling through a playlist. Little did I know that this song would captivate me with its bold lyrics and catchy beats.
Released as the second single from Da Brat’s 2000 album Unrestricted, “What’Chu Like” is a verbal foreplay between Da Brat and R&B singer Tyrese. The song showcases their sexually charged conversation as they circle each other in the club, discussing their desires and preferences before getting down to business. It presents a refreshing take on open communication about sex, highlighting the importance of understanding and respecting each other’s desires.
The bold and unapologetic lyrics of “What’Chu Like” reflect Da Brat’s confidence and sexual empowerment. She raps about her preferences when it comes to partners, stating that she likes people of various ethnicities and emphasizes the necessity of good conversation and financial stability. Da Brat exudes a sense of self-assuredness and showcases herself as a strong, independent woman who knows what she wants.
With lyrics like “I like it when you touch my privacy” and “No woman can slow dance or throw down like I can,” Da Brat challenges societal norms and stereotypes surrounding female sexuality. She embraces her own desires and pleasure, breaking free from the male-dominated narrative that often dominates hip-hop songs.
The catchy chorus, sung by Tyrese, adds another layer of sensuality to the song. The melodic hook emphasizes the importance of mutual pleasure and satisfaction in a sexual relationship, creating a harmonious blend between Da Brat’s bold rap verses and Tyrese’s smooth R&B vocals.
Sample and Speculation
“What’Chu Like” samples the 1976 Claudja Barry song “Love for the Sake of Love,” adding a nostalgic touch to the track. Interestingly, the same beat was used a few months prior by Montell Jordan in his 1999 hit “Get It On Tonite.” Both songs share a similar theme of pre-game innuendo, with Montell Jordan’s song focusing on secret encounters. The timing of the release fueled speculation that “What’Chu Like” could be a gender-reversed response to “Get It On Tonite,” as it was a popular trend at the time.
However, “What’Chu Like” stands on its own as a remarkable song. Produced by Jermaine Dupri and featuring a male singer in the chorus, it blurs lines and challenges gender stereotypes within the music industry.
Overall, “What’Chu Like” is a powerful and empowering song by Da Brat that celebrates sexual liberation and open communication. Through her bold lyrics and confident delivery, Da Brat challenges societal expectations and creates a space for unapologetic self-expression. This song remains as relevant and impactful today as it was when it was released, reminding us of the importance of embracing our desires and confidently asserting our preferences.
