Bad

Album: Folarin (2012)

Stream

Credits:

Produced by: Kelson Camp & Tiara Thomas

Writers: Wale & Tiara Thomas

Lyrics

Monogamy or whatever you call it
I’m starting to think it ain’t for everybody
Most of us rushing into it anyways, you know what I’m saying
You ain’t rushing for love, and I ain’t up here to judge
Let’s neglect the what if’s and make it do what it does
Let’s get it
Is it bad that I never made love, no I never did it
But I sure know how to fuck
I’ll be your bad girl, I’ll prove it to you
I can’t promise that I’ll be good to you
‘Cause I had some issues, I won’t commit
No, not having it
But at least I can admit that I’ll be bad no to you (to you)
Yeah, I’ll be good in bed but I’ll be bad to you
Bad that I never made love, no I never did it
But I sure know how to fuck
Lets get it
Bad girls ain’t no good, and the good girls ain’t no fun
And the hood girls want a smart nigga, college girls all want a thug
So it seems we fiend for what we don’t need
Got a thing for a queen who know when to leave
I’m not bout to judge you, don’t judge me
You ain’t gotta really sing about your rap sheet
‘Cause I heard you (bad no)
In the literal sense I mean that
Rough sex saying I love yeah
But to kiss them saying you mean that
I know I just be calling her mean ass
Oh the irony, got the bomb indeed
But the problem is it’s probably a deep past
Still I’m feeling of something I need bad
Thinking if I get her, I get her to need this
I don’t need emotions to open your deep sea
I conceive an ocean by going between legs
Beg, nope, bed, floor, dope
Go, for it, couch, now
Slow, motion, around, put it down
Lord knows she was going for the morn, hold up
Is it bad that I never made love, no I never did it
But I sure know how to fuck
I’ll be your bad girl, I’ll prove it to you
I can’t promise that I’ll be good to you
Cause I had some issues, I won’t commit
No, not having it
But at least I can admit that I’ll be bad no to you (to you)
Yeah, I’ll be good in bed but I’ll be bad to you
Let me tell you about, look
She hurt feelings, she break hearts
She stay quiet, she play smart
She take pride, in going out
Getting hollered at, and saying nah
She no saint, but she don’t pose
She don’t wear make up by the boat load
Riding through lake shore with the nose up
She don’t really date much but it slows her up
She got haters, but we all do
Heard you winter time cold, shawty fall through
Baby look at they approach how they court you
All those minds games never mind cause they all lose
In the physical sense I mean that
I ain’t tryna kiss up, suck up, feed gas
I ain’t like them nigga you sucking your teeth at, nope
Play big, trust me I’ll humble your mean ass, look
Shawty is actually in prevent
Cause the one in front is working deep threat, yep
Bed, floor, couch, more
More, shower, Lord, perm
Done, love, nah
Called in the morning cell number wasn’t on, goddamn
Is it bad that I never made love, no I never did it
But I sure know how to fuck
I’ll be your bad girl, I’ll prove it to you
I can’t promise that I’ll be good to you
‘Cause I had some issues, I won’t commit
No, not having it
But at least I can admit that I’ll be bad no to you (to you)
Yeah, I’ll be good in bed but I’ll be bad to you
Bad that I never made love, no I never did it
But I sure know how to fuck

Lyrics Insight

Background & Inspiration

“Bad” is a song by Wale, featuring singer-songwriter Tiara Thomas, released in 2013 as the lead single from Wale’s third studio album, The Gifted. The track gained widespread recognition for its smooth yet haunting production, deeply introspective lyrics, and exploration of modern relationships.

The song was originally written and recorded by Tiara Thomas, who produced an acoustic version of the track. Wale heard her rendition and decided to collaborate with her, transforming it into a full-fledged hip-hop and R&B-infused song. The production, handled by Kelson Camp, features a minimalist beat with soft synths and subtle percussion, creating a moody, intimate atmosphere that perfectly complements the song’s themes.

Lyrically, “Bad” explores the complexities of casual relationships, emotional detachment, and self-worth. Tiara Thomas’ chorus highlights the fear of vulnerability and commitment, while Wale’s verses offer a perspective on relationships shaped by past trauma and societal expectations. The song resonated with many listeners due to its relatable storytelling and raw honesty.

Following its success, Wale later released a remix featuring Rihanna, which added a new dynamic to the song while keeping its original theme intact. “Bad” became one of Wale’s biggest hits, peaking at #21 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning platinum certification. It remains a defining track in his discography, known for its soulful depth and emotional resonance.

Interpretation & Fan Theories

Wale’s “Bad”, featuring Tiara Thomas, is a deep and introspective song that explores themes of casual relationships, emotional detachment, and self-worth. The track presents a contrast between physical intimacy and emotional disconnection, shedding light on the complexities of modern love and relationships.

Tiara Thomas’ hook, “Is it bad that I never made love, I never did it, but I sure know how to f*”**, sets the tone of the song. It expresses the perspective of a woman who hasn’t experienced deep emotional connections but is familiar with physical intimacy. This line reflects a fear of vulnerability—a common theme in today’s dating culture, where people may choose temporary pleasure over emotional risk.

Wale’s verses dive into the perspective of a man dealing with a woman who avoids love due to past pain. He acknowledges that while she may not be “bad” in a moral sense, she has built emotional walls that prevent her from experiencing true love. He also reflects on the superficial nature of many relationships, where physical attraction and temporary passion often outweigh genuine emotional bonds.

The song’s production, with smooth, moody instrumentals, complements its introspective and melancholic tone. The slow, hypnotic beat and Tiara Thomas’ haunting vocals make the track soulful yet raw, emphasizing the emotional conflict at its core.

Ultimately, “Bad” is about emotional damage, self-protection, and the difficulty of forming meaningful connections in a world where love is often confused with lust. It captures the struggles of individuals who desire love but fear its consequences, making it a relatable and thought-provoking song.