Pharrell Williams has been talking about the controversial song he wrote back in 2012; Blurred Lines, which received widespread criticism for problematic lyrics. Performed by Robin Thicke, some found the lyrics such as; 'I know you want it/ But you're a good girl/ The way you grab me/ Must wanna get nasty’ problematic as similar language is used by men who try to coerce women into sexual activity.
In an interview with GQ about redefining masculinity and spiritual warfare, Williams admits he didn’t see any problem with the lyrics because of how he saw women reacting to the song.
‘I didn't get it at first. Because there were older white women who, when that song came on, they would behave in some of the most surprising ways ever. And I would be like, wow. They would have me blushing.
'So when there started to be an issue with it, lyrically, I was, like, What are you talking about? There are women who really like the song and connect to the energy that just gets you up. And I know you want it—women sing those kinds of lyrics all the time. So it's like, What's rapey about that?’
READ MORE: Pharrell: 'A Lot Of Women Liked The Blurred Lines Video'
He then came to the realisation that the lyrics of his song perpetuated some of the toxic language and behaviours women are subjected to, and says it ‘blew his mind’.
‘I realized that there are men who use that same language when taking advantage of a woman, and it doesn't matter that that's not my behavior. Or the way I think about things. It just matters how it affects women. And I was like, Got it. I get it. Cool.
'My mind opened up to what was actually being said in the song and how it could make someone feel. Even though it wasn't the majority, it didn't matter. I cared what they were feeling too. I realized that we live in a chauvinist culture in our country. Hadn't realized that. Didn't realize that some of my songs catered to that. So that blew my mind.’