Get On Your Knees (feat. Nicki Minaj)
Ariana Grande
Empowerment and Dominance: Unpacking 'Get On Your Knees'
Ariana Grande's 'Get On Your Knees,' featuring Nicki Minaj, is a bold and unapologetic anthem of female empowerment and sexual dominance. The song flips traditional gender roles, placing the women in positions of power and control. The repeated command to 'get on your knees' is a clear assertion of dominance, demanding submission and respect from their partners. This is not just about physical submission but also about emotional and psychological control, as evidenced by the repeated insistence on saying 'pretty, please.'
The lyrics are filled with metaphors and imagery that emphasize the power dynamics at play. Lines like 'Got a bow on my panties because my ass is a present' and 'It's takin' off like a missile' use vivid, almost playful language to assert control and confidence. The song also dismisses traditional romantic gestures like 'a dozen roses' or 'wine and dine,' suggesting that these are unnecessary when true power and respect are in play. Instead, the focus is on the partner's willingness to beg and submit, highlighting a more primal and raw form of attraction and connection.
Nicki Minaj's verse adds another layer of complexity to the song. Her lines, such as 'Gimme brain, assume the position, make me way smarter like you was a magician,' blend intelligence and sexuality, further emphasizing the multifaceted nature of female empowerment. The reference to 'Katy Perry' and 'fireworks' adds a pop culture element, making the song relatable and contemporary. Overall, 'Get On Your Knees' is a powerful statement about female agency, control, and the rejection of traditional romantic norms in favor of a more assertive and empowered stance.