“Controlla” is a dancehall-infused track from Drake’s fourth studio album, Views, showcasing his signature blend of R&B and Caribbean influences. Originally released as a collaboration with dancehall artist Popcaan, the song features a sample from Beenie Man’s 1995 track Tear Off Mi Garment. With its smooth, laid-back rhythm, Controlla captures the breezy, melodic vibe that defines much of Views.

Song Credits

  • Artist: Drake
  • Album: Views
  • Released: June 7, 2016
  • Recorded: 2015
  • Length: 4:05
  • Label: Young Money Entertainment, Cash Money Records, Republic Records
  • Writer: Drake, Boi-1da, Supa Dups, Allen Ritter, Di Genius, Andrew Thomas, Patrick Roberts, Garu Jackson, Donald Dennis, Beenie Man
  • Producer: Supa Dups, Di Genius, Allen Ritter, Boi-1da

Drake “Controlla” Official Audio

Drake “Controlla” Lyrics

[Intro: Popcaan]
One, two
Yeah

[Verse 1: Drake]
I think I'd lie for you
I think I'd die for you
Do things when you want me to
Like controlla, controlla
Yeah, like controlla, controlla
I think I'd take your friend
And do things I never do
For you, for you
Like controlla, controlla
Yeah, like controlla, controlla   

[Chorus: Drake]
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no
They don't want no problems, want no problems with me
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no
They don't want no problems, want no problems with me

[Verse 2: Drake]
You and me, we used to be like strangers
Now you're telling me you wanna be with strangers
You and me, we used to be like lovers
Now you're telling me you wanna be with others
You and me, we used to be like family
Now you're telling me you wanna be with enemies
You and me, we used to be like everything
Now you're telling me you wanna be with nothing

[Chorus: Drake]
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no
They don't want no problems, want no problems with me
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no
They don't want no problems, want no problems with me

[Bridge: Drake]
I do things for you that I never do
Like controlla, controlla
Yeah, like controlla, controlla
I take your friend and do the things I never do
Like controlla, controlla
Yeah, like controlla, controlla

[Verse 3: Drake]
Woke up in the morning, I see you in the mirror
You're telling me you wanna be with someone bigger
You're telling me you wanna be with someone richer
You're telling me you wanna be with someone realer
I'm telling you I'm the one, I'm the one you need
I'm telling you I'm the one, I'm the one you breathe
I'm telling you I'm the one, I'm the one you see
I'm telling you I'm the one, I'm the one for me

[Chorus: Drake]
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no
They don't want no problems, want no problems with me
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no
They don't want no problems, want no problems with me

[Outro: Popcaan]
Controlla, controlla
Yeah, like controlla, controlla

Drake “Controlla” Meaning

“Controlla” went through notable changes before its final album release. On March 29, 2016, a version featuring Jamaican dancehall artist Popcaan leaked online. However, in the official album version, Popcaan’s verses were removed and replaced with a sample from Beenie Man’s “Tear Off Mi Garment.”

drake

Lyrically, Controlla is a passionate love song that expresses deep devotion to a significant woman in Drake’s life. He emphasizes his commitment by referencing Jodeci’s “Cry for You,” symbolizing the emotional depth of the relationship. Fans have speculated that the lyrics might be about Rihanna, particularly lines that suggest a transformation in Drake’s perspective on love. The chorus underscores the woman’s influence over him, portraying her as someone with an undeniable hold on his emotions.

In the leaked version featuring Popcaan, the song takes on a more explicit and sensual tone. Popcaan’s verses describe an intense physical connection, using vivid metaphors to convey his passion. By the song’s conclusion, he openly expresses his desire to be with this person for life, further highlighting the song’s romantic and sexual themes.