Bluesy R&B guitar with little “bloop” sounds of a text message that was seen but not responded to initiate the composition. It’s a modern conundrum and recontextualizing of a topic inherent to the genre. A technology-centered story of love filled with prideful gameplay. Lucky Daye and Tiana Major9 each bring the fuel to the blue flame of the contest, seeing who will give in or give up first on “On Read.”
“Show me a sign that you could be mine, I’m looking for a little leeway. I’m in the back corner where you up left off ’cause you got me on freeze, baby.” — Lucky Daye
Daye starts by singing for forgiveness. He uses a tactic of slightly begging his lover to look past whatever minute transgression he committed. Daye, through buttery melodies, tries to show that since he realized the error of his ways all he can do is wait and hope for a reply and reconciliation. As we enter into the hook, the song gains steam and more 808 layers to build suspense. Daye then enacts his second strategy of displaying his yearning, when after he sings, “You keep me waiting all night,” a choir of women repeat the phrase “All night” in harmony behind him. This, combined with a writhing string section, seems to charmingly show his level of passion for the lover he did wrong.
“Never back your chat with your actions. I ain’t the one. Baby, I’m so headstrong. It’s your lucky day if I answer.” — Tiana Major9
UK songstress Tiana Major9 seems unfazed by Daye’s offering. She responds with a cheeky dismissal of his presentation, even using his name ironically to tease his efforts. Major9 weaves and dips, showing off her vocal prowess, which even further twists the knife of her rejection. From her quick rhythmic singing to her extended vocal runs, she handles the instrumental’s pocket like a pro. Then as Major9 sings her own iteration of the hook, she continues to mock Daye, and he even sings to his own demise alongside her. They sing and confirm, “I’ll keep you waiting all night,” then naturally, the lady choir repeats “All night.” Daye is left having to take the loss and reassess.
The song concludes with sounds of a marker writing and Daye speaking his thoughts aloud. He reflects upon the plight of his hurt and what he did to cause this outcome. This ending feels like it must be pre-cursoring a project with a storytelling element. This would be a welcome type of project from Daye, and it’s impossible not to crave hearing all of the other elements after listening to this song.