SZA’s “BMF,” short for “Boy from South Detroit,” is a standout track from her December 2024 album reissue, Lana. This song blends contemporary R&B with classic bossa nova elements, notably interpolating the 1960s hit “The Girl from Ipanema” by Antônio Carlos Jobim. The familiar melody is reimagined with SZA’s unique style, creating a fresh yet nostalgic sound.

Lyrically, “BMF” tells the story of a captivating romance with a man from South Detroit. The line “The boy from South Detroit keep bossin’ / And I can’t keep my panties from dropping” cleverly references Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’,” adding a layer of cultural homage.

Beyond Detroit, SZA mentions Slauson Avenue in Los Angeles, which some interpret as a tribute to the late rapper Nipsey Hussle, who had strong ties to the area.

“BMF” was initially intended for SZA’s 2022 album SOS but was held back for the Lana reissue. Early snippets and live performances had already generated significant anticipation among fans. The song was rumored to feature Lizzo, though the final release does not include this collaboration.

Critics have praised “BMF” for its seamless fusion of genres and eras. Rob Sheffield of Rolling Stone noted that the track showcases SZA at her most streamlined and direct, highlighting her ability to blend diverse musical influences into a cohesive piece.

In summary, “BMF” exemplifies SZA’s talent for storytelling and genre-blending. By intertwining personal narrative with cultural references, she crafts a song that resonates on multiple levels, appealing to both long-time fans and new listeners.

BMF Lyrics

[Chorus]
Young and fine and dark and handsome
The boy from South Detroit keep bossing
And I can’t keep my panties from dropping
He’s so fly, fly

[Verse 1]
Going too fast, don’t hurt yourself
I can’t keep up with all the lies you tell yourself
You kinda cute, but play too much, don’t play yourself
I’m not the one, but we can still pretend this can be my man
You say you feel different when you with me, tell me anything
Compliment my energy, it’s different laying next to me
All I ask is don’t make me pull up and get to dumping
You know I can’t give no fucks, you know I’m with all the ruckus, can you?

[Chorus]
Young and fine and dark and handsome
The boy West side of Compton camе walking in
I can’t keep my panties from dropping
He’s so fly, fly

[Verse 2]
Ooh, he bossy, ooh, hе crip walkin’
Took me to Slauson and he slut me out
And when I got a problem, he get to packing
He ’bout all that action, call him Mr. Handle It
You know I’m hella different from them chickens you been trickin’ on
I can be your ride or die, get down your strongest bone
Trust me, boy, I’m good in every hood
Trickin’, finna fall in backwards
I’m just tryna show you what it would be like if you my man

[Chorus]
Young and fine and dark and handsome
The boy from South of somewhere came walking in
And I can’t keep my panties from dropping
He’s so fly, fly

[Bridge]
Blowin’ money fast, it won’t last (Oh-woah)
Tryna make it last, ooh-oh
Blowin’ money fast, we might crash (Mmm)
I’ll make it last, we’ll be— oh-oh

[Verse 3]
Ecstasy is just a pill away
Pop it up or you could screw today
I’m just tryna hear you say my name
Love to play your ruler, be your Jane
You could be my Tarzan, toss me up
Other hoes is lacking, call me up
Know my baby packing, why I’m stuck
That’s why he my man

[Chorus]
Young and he fine and he tall and he handsome
Talkin’ so fine, I might hold it for ransom
Put it in drive, I’m not shy, I might let ya
Cruise all night
[Outro]
Blowin’ money fast, it won’t last (Oh-woah)
Tryna make it last, ooh-oh
Blowin’ money fast, we might crash (Mmm)
I’ll make it last, we’ll be— oh-oh