Music Review: “Hurtin’ Me”

Up and coming British rapper Stefflon Don released her song “Hurtin’ Me,” featuring French Montana late last year. The song was Don’s first breakout single, reaching the top of the charts all across Europe.

In “Hurtin’ Me,” Don sings about being an “ex-girlfriend who feels really hurt that her boyfriend moved on and has found a new girlfriend.” In reality, however, she considers herself the new girlfriend. “When I’m in a relationship, I’m such a perfect girlfriend,” she said in a Genius interview. “I used to literally make breakfast for my ex every morning,” she recounted. This was the inspiration for the line, “breakfast in bed darlin’,” in the first verse.

Despite the heartbroken lyrics, Don’s spunk gives the song an uplifting feel that reflects her optimistic personality. In her Genius interview, she talked about the ache she feels whenever a boyfriend is disloyal. Combing through the memory of her relationships, Don realized that the breakups were not caused by her, but rather her lovers’ insecurities. After hearing about her inspiration for the song, I viewed “Hurtin’ Me” as an anthem in remembrance of the pain that she overcame, rising as the better person of her past partnerships.

I first came across Stefflon Don’s music through a dancing video. While watching dance company R3d One’s choreography video, which played to Don’s first song “16 Shots,” I became intrigued by her vocals and musical style. I found her Spotify profile and added the song to my playlists. ‘Hurtin’ Me’ displays stark stylistic differences from “16 Shots,” though I love them both.

Compared to “16 Shots,” “Hurtin’ Me” demonstrates a calmer Stefflon, her smooth vocals are complemented by French Montana’s bold verses. “16 Shots” features a loud bass with electronic influences—perfect for dance choreography.

In her Genius interview, Don expressed her appreciation for French Montana’s collaboration. “I just want French, and I didn’t want anybody else,” she said. Although French Montana’s verse flaunted wealth and contrasted with Don’s upbeat lyrics, his rhymes lent a carefree energy to the song which matched the instrumental staccato.

I hope Stefflon Don continues to produce music where she feels free to express her experiences and emotions. Her catchy, original beats will surely reach American hearts while  continuing to uplift the ones she has already captured in England.