Calvin Harris, Slide | Track Review

Calvin Harris assembles a star-studded cast – Frank Ocean and Migos – for his hot, new single, “Slide.”

Oh, the company that Calvin Harris keeps.  On his latest single, “Slide,” the electronic musician/DJ varies his usual collaborators.  He brings Frank Ocean (!) and Migos (!!!) into the fold. Collective gasp everyone.  While Harris packs the star power himself to make a new single a big deal, bring on the aforementioned urban standouts only amplifies the gargantuan nature of the new single.  Now the question is, does “Slide” live up to the star-studded hype?

“Slide” begins with Ocean’s familiar, alt-R&B brand.  He uses extreme high-pitch shifted vocals, similar to the approach on portions of Blonde.  Thankfully, that’s not the only taste of Ocean listeners get.  We are treated to his natural voice, in all its illustrious beauty.  Among the best moments is the hook, in all its catchy glory:

“Do you slide on all your nights like this?
Do you try on all your nights like this? (I might)
Put some spotlight on the slide
Whatever comes, comes through clear.”

The Migos – at least two out of three of them – get their shots on verses two and three.  Quavo tackles the second verse, employing simplicity and repetition as his best friend.  As for Offset, he adds more variance, though raps about shallow things.  Offset doesn’t hold back on his flex action:

“Bitches be dippin, dabbin with n***as like a nacho
Took off her panties, diamonds dancing like Rick Riccardo…”

As for Harris’ musical contributions, the production is superb, characterized by its good vibes and a killer groove.

Final Thoughts

All in all, Calvin Harris has another hit on his hands with “Slide.”  In reiteration, featuring Frank Ocean and Migos was enough to secure hit-status.  Beyond their appearance, the song itself grooves hard, Ocean sings well, and Migos spit their normal cocky and confident rhymes.

Calvin Harris  • Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 1 • Columbia • Release: 6.30.17

Photo Credit: Columbia