No matter how suggestive she is, British pop artist Charli XCX is clear about what her ‘focus’ is on her single “Focus” – that universal three-letter word.

If you read the title of the latest Charli XCX single, “Focus,” you’ll have the premise of the song. Throughout the course of the slick “Focus,” all the British pop artist wants her lover to do is to quote, “focus on my love.”  From start to finish, the focus is clear, even if it’s oversimplified and repetitive.

On the first verse, Charli XCX incorporates sexual innuendo, but she never warrants that ‘parental advisory, explicit lyrics’ sticker you might say. “Blow my mind like explosions / Just one touch leaves me helpless / On repeat like it’s endless.” Blow – explosions – hmm… Still, by the pre-chorus, she informs us “Bedsheets turn to a white dress / Look so good, damn you did this.”  With the focus of the chorus already sufficiently analyzed, moving on to the second verse, Charli expects the focus and composer to be “Like you tryna earn that diploma,” and insinuates that sex should “pop, Coca-Cola.” Oh brother!

Final Thoughts 

As aforementioned, the title of the song reveals Charli XCX’s deck of cards.  This record is the equivalent of sex, without ever uttering the word.  The thing is, she doesn’t have to because her suggestiveness is potent – loud and clear.  Even though “Focus” doesn’t quite make to three-and-half-minutes, a respectable duration for a pop cut, it feels as if it’s still too long.  The main reason is because of the repetition.  I’d hate to count how many times she sings about focusing on doing it.  It’s not bad, but certainly not innovative, profound, or anywhere near being transcendent.

Charli XCX • Focus / No Angel – Single • Atlantic UK • Release: 6.29.18

Photo Credit: Atlantic UK