How Many Drinks Lyrics

Mean

Released in 2018, How Many Drinks, a song by Miguel featuring Kendrick Lamar, is a seductive track about the artist’s attraction to a woman, and the abstract and visceral lyrics bring the message to life.

The song’s opening verse paints a vivid picture of Miguel’s attraction. He sings, "I just wanna know one thing, would you let me buy you one? ‘Cause I’m out of my mind, I know that I’m about to blow it if I can’t get some time." This speaks to his overwhelming desire to get to know her and his risk of rejection if he can’t find a way to make it happen.

The hook further develops the idea of attraction and desire: "How many drinks will it take ’til I can’t think your name? How many drinks will it take ’til I don’t think the same? How many drinks will it take ’til I stop thinking ’bout you?" These lyrics illustrate the lengths one might go to in order to forget someone or to block out feelings, using drinking as a way to cope with unrequited love.

Kendrick Lamar’s rap verse adds an interesting counterpoint–he speaks from the perspective of another man who is also attracted to the same woman, and he talks about the various ways he’ll try to win her over. He rhymes, "Money’s not a problem, I’ll pay you all I got/ Gold, diamonds and pearls, I’ma spoil you to the top/ Plus I’ma be the only one who can make you smile and laugh." He professes his willingness to give her any material thing she wants in a bid to win her affections, which is a different approach from Miguel’s direct invitation to hang out.

The song’s combination of Miguel and Kendrick Lamar’s contrasting approaches make it a compelling look into the minds of two men seeking the same woman. Its abstract lyrics provide a unique perspective on feelings of attraction, desire, and how people deal with them. Ultimately, How Many Drinks offers a powerful glimpse into the nuances of the human condition.