Liam Payne and Rita Ora join forces for “For You,” the lead single from the latest ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ film and soundtrack, ‘Fifty Shades Freed.’

“For You (Fifty Shades Freed).” What does it mean? Another Fifty Shades of Grey film – specifically Fifty Shades Freed – is forthcoming.  That also means that there’s another star-studded soundtrack on deck.  This time, the lead single, as aforementioned, is in the hands of pop stars Liam Payne and Rita Ora.  This marks the second One Direction member to serve as a backdrop from the sexually explicit film series.  Of course, Payne already requested to “Strip That Down” and referenced the “Bedroom Floor” so…

“For You” opens in a minor key, led by synth production. All in all, the sound is appealing – solid palette, solid production.  Vocally, Rita Ora takes first blood, with successful results.  It ends up that Ora is the star of “For You.” Initially, the production backing her is light, following the initial synth burst. Her verse is backed by a subtle groove.  As the song progresses, the groove asserts itself more, as does Ora vocally.  By the time Liam arrivers for a short second verse, there’s more production, rhythm, and the cards have been essentially revealed. As aforementioned, there’s more Rita than Liam, even if Liam is ultimately successful in his roles.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, “For You (Fifty Shades Freed)” is another successful single for the Fifty Shades films/soundtracks. Compared to juggernauts like “Earned It (Fifty Shades of Grey)” or “Love Me Like You Do”, this isn’t as memorable and has less value aside from the soundtrack.  Even compared to “I Don’t Wanna Live Forever (Fifty Shades Darker)”, it’s arguably a smidge less memorable.  It would’ve been nice to hear more Liam Payne, who takes more of a backing role.  Good, minimally adequate, but forgettable.

Liam Payne & Rita Ora • For You (Fifty Shades Freed) – Single • Republic • Release: 1.5.18

Writers & Producers: Peter Karlsson, Watt, Ali Payami

Photo Credit: Republic