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{{Infobox single {{Infobox song
| Name = Only | name = Only
| Cover = Nicki Minaj Only.png | cover = Nicki Minaj Only.png
| alt =
| Artist = ] featuring ], ] and ]
| Border = yes | border = yes
| type = single
| Album = ]
| artist = ] featuring ], ] and ]
| Released = {{Start date|2014|10|28}}
| album = ]
| Format = ]
| Recorded = 2014 | released = {{Start date|2014|10|28}}
| recorded = 2014
| Genre = {{flat list|
| studio =
*]}}
| genre = ]
| Length = 5:13
| length = 5:12<br />4:59 (album edit – international deluxe)
| Label = {{flat list|
| label =
*] *]
*] *]
*]}} *]
| Producer = | writer =
*]
{{flatlist|
*]
*]
*Jeremy Coleman
*]
*]
*]
*]
| producer =
*] *]
*] *]
*HBM
*JMIKE *JMIKE
| chronology = ]
*]}}
| prev_title = ]
| Writer = {{flatlist|
| prev_year = 2014
*]
| next_title = ]
*]
| next_year = 2014
*]
| misc = {{Extra chronology
*]
| artist = ]
*]
| type = single
*Jeremy Coleman
| prev_title = ]
*]}}
| prev_year = 2014
| Chronology = ] singles
| Type = single | title = Only
| Last single = "]"<br />(2014) | year = 2014
| next_title = ]
| This single = "'''Only'''"<br />(2014)
| next_year = 2014
| Next single = "]"<br />(2014)
| Misc =
{{Extra chronology
| Artist = ]
| Type = single
| Last single = "]"<br>(2014)
| This single = "'''Only'''"<br />(2014)
| Next single = "]"<br />(2014)
}} }}
{{Extra chronology {{Extra chronology
| Artist = ] singles | artist = ]
| Type = singles | type = singles
| Last single = "]"<br />(2014) | prev_title = ]
| This single = "'''Only'''"<br />(2014) | prev_year = 2014
| title = Only
| Next single = "]"<br />(2015)
| year = 2014
| next_title = ]
| next_year = 2015
}} }}
{{Extra chronology {{Extra chronology
| Artist = ] singles | artist = ]
| Type = singles | type = singles
| Last single = "]"<br/>(2014) | prev_title = Grindin
| This single = "'''Only'''"<br />(2014) | prev_year = 2014
| title = Only
| Next single = "Start a Fire"<br />(2014)
| year = 2014
| next_title = ]
| next_year = 2014
}} }}
{{External music video|{{YouTube|zXtsGAkyeIo|"Only"}}}}
}} }}


"'''Only'''" is a song by Trinidadian-American rapper ], from her third studio album, '']'' (2014). It was released on October 28, 2014 by ], ] and ] as the third single from the album.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/only-feat.-drake-lil-wayne/id934621980|title=iTunes - Music - Only (feat. Drake, Lil Wayne & Chris Brown) - Single by Nicki Minaj|publisher=iTunes|date=October 28, 2014|accessdate=October 28, 2014}}</ref> It features additional rap vocals from hip hop artists ] and ], and also features ] who sings the chorus of the song. "Only" was co-written by Minaj, Wayne, Drake and Brown alongside with additional writing from ], Jeremy Coleman and ]. The songs production was handled by ], ], HBM, JMIKE and ]. "Only" is a hip-hop song that contains an "icy" production that sits "ominously" underneath dirty lyrical metaphors.<ref name=Music&Lyrics>{{cite web|last1=Lockett|first1=Dee|title=Nicki Minaj’s The Pinkprint: A Track-by-Track Breakdown|url=http://www.slate.com/blogs/browbeat/2014/12/12/nicki_minaj_s_the_pinkprint_leaked_here_s_a_track_by_track_breakdown_of.html|publisher='']''|accessdate=December 16, 2014}}</ref> "'''Only'''" is a song by Trinidadian-born rapper ] featuring Canadian rapper ], American rapper ], and American singer ], from her third studio album, '']'' (2014). It was released on October 28, 2014 by ], ], and ] as the third single from the album.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/only-feat.-drake-lil-wayne/id934621980|title=iTunes - Music - Only (feat. Drake, Lil Wayne & Chris Brown) - Single by Nicki Minaj|publisher=iTunes|date=October 28, 2014|access-date=October 28, 2014}}</ref> The rappers wrote the song with producers ], ], and JMIKE, with production assistance from HBM and ]. "Only" is a hip-hop song that contains an "icy" production that sits "ominously" underneath dirty lyrical metaphors.<ref name=Music&Lyrics>{{cite magazine|last1=Lockett|first1=Dee|title=Nicki Minaj's The Pinkprint: A Track-by-Track Breakdown|url=http://www.slate.com/blogs/browbeat/2014/12/12/nicki_minaj_s_the_pinkprint_leaked_here_s_a_track_by_track_breakdown_of.html|magazine=]|access-date=December 16, 2014}}</ref>


Upon release "Only" received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised Minaj's rapping technique and stating she out raps any completion, however some critics felt the song was not her strongest. Commercially the song was a success in the United States; "Only" peaked at number twelve on the US ] and number one on the US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, giving Minaj her fourth number one and making her the only female rap artists to do so. The song was certified platinum by ] (RIAA). "Only" peaked at number 12 on the US ] and number one on the US ] chart, giving Nicki Minaj her fourth number one on the latter chart and making her the first female rap artist to do so. The song was certified triple platinum by the ] (RIAA). The song received a nomination for ] at the ].


The song was supported with the release of both a lyric video and an official video. The lyric video was released on November 2014, premiering close to the 25th anniversary of the fall of the ], with visualizations inspired by the ] Regime and the work of ]. There was immediate backlash from fans, calling the video ] and insensitive, although Minaj herself was not involved in the production of the lyric video and said she regrets not overseeing it before it was posted to YouTube. The song accompanying music video was released the following month and was directed by ]; it premiered on December 12, 2014 Both a lyric video and an official video were released to promote the song. The lyric video was released in November 2014, premiering close to the 25th anniversary of the fall of the ], with visualizations inspired by the ] of Germany and the work of ].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Graham |first=Daniella |date=2014-11-09 |title=Nicki Minaj and Chris Brown under fire for use of 'Nazi imagery' in new video |url=https://metro.co.uk/2014/11/09/nicki-minaj-under-fire-for-use-of-nazi-imagery-in-only-lyric-video-4941502/ |access-date=2024-04-01 |website=Metro |language=en}}</ref> There was immediate backlash from fans, calling the video ] and insensitive, although Nicki Minaj stated she was not involved in the production of the lyric video and said she regrets not overseeing it before it was posted to YouTube. The song's accompanying music video, released the following month and directed by ], premiered on December 12, 2014.


==Background and release== ==Background and release==
During in interview with Capital Xtra today in June 2013, Minaj stated that she hoped Drake would be making an appearance on the album continuing to say "We're supposed to meet up this week to get some stuff crack-a-ling in the studio. I think there'll be another feature on the album that will blow people away. I'm super excited about that too, but it's obviously a secret!".<ref>http://www.gigwise.com/news/92024/nicki-minaj-says-the-pink-print-will-feature-collaboration-with-drake</ref> During an interview with Capital Xtra in June 2013, Minaj stated that she hoped Drake would appear on the album continuing to say "We're supposed to meet up this week to get some stuff crack-a-ling in the studio. I think there'll be another feature on the album that will blow people away. I'm super excited about that too, but it's obviously a secret!".<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.gigwise.com/news/92024/nicki-minaj-says-the-pink-print-will-feature-collaboration-with-drake|title = Nicki Minaj says the Pink Print will feature collaboration with Drake}}</ref> On October 26, 2014, Minaj posted the single cover on ], informing fans that this would be the third single off her upcoming album '']''. The cover art for the song was an illustration that depicts Minaj in a superhero catsuit, Drake as the pope, and Lil Wayne in a suit and tie.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2014/10/26/nicki-minaj-taps-drake-lil-wayne-chris-brown-for-new-single-only/|title=NICKI MINAJ TAPS DRAKE, LIL WAYNE, & CHRIS BROWN FOR NEW SINGLE 'ONLY'|access-date=December 14, 2014|magazine=Rap-Up}}</ref> "Only" was released for digital download as the third single from the album on October 28, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|title=iTunes - Music - Only (feat. Drake, Lil Wayne & Chris Brown) - Single by Nicki Minaj|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/only-feat.-drake-lil-wayne/id934621980|publisher=] Store (US). Apple Inc.|access-date=October 28, 2014}}</ref>

On October 26 2014, Minaj posted the single cover on ], informing that this would be the third single of her upcoming album '']''. The cover art for the song was an illustration that depicts Minaj in a superhero catsuit, Drake as the pope, and Lil Wayne in a suit and tie.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2014/10/26/nicki-minaj-taps-drake-lil-wayne-chris-brown-for-new-single-only/|title=NICKI MINAJ TAPS DRAKE, LIL WAYNE, & CHRIS BROWN FOR NEW SINGLE ‘ONLY’|accessdate=December 14, 2014|publisher=''Rap-Up''}}</ref>
== Recording ==
"Only" was released for digital download as the third single from the album on October 28, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|title=iTunes - Music - Only (feat. Drake, Lil Wayne & Chris Brown) - Single by Nicki Minaj|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/only-feat.-drake-lil-wayne/id934621980|publisher=] Store (US). Apple Inc.|accessdate=October 28, 2014}}</ref>
Speaking to ] in November 2019, Minaj's ] Big Juice recalled how Minaj reacted after she received Chris Brown's vocals for the chorus: "I remember when we did 'Only' and got the Chris Brown vocals back for that. She was jumping up and screaming, 'This is a fucking hit'."<ref name="Big Juice">{{Cite web|url=https://www.revolt.tv/2019/11/7/20951462/nicki-minaj-engineer-big-juice-interview|title=Studio Sessions - Big Juice talks being Nicki Minaj's main engineer, her "MotorSport" verse, the rapper being a perfectionist and more|last=Nelson Jr|first=Keith|website=]|date=November 7, 2019|access-date=March 29, 2020}}</ref>


==Reception== ==Reception==
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| filename = Nicki Minaj - Only.ogg | filename = Nicki Minaj - Only.ogg
| title = "Only" | title = "Only"
| description = A 29-second sample of "Only" by Nicki Minaj featuring Drake, Lil Wayne and Chris Brown, where the chorus is heard. | description = A 29-second sample of "Only" by Nicki Minaj featuring Drake, Lil Wayne and Chris Brown, where the chorus and part of Drake's verse is heard.
| pos = right | pos = right
}} }}
Carolyn Menyes from Music Times gave the song a positive review, saying "With a cool sense of confidence and rhymes that boast of her own sexual and rapping prowess, Minaj is taking the reins, leading into the equally vulgar and explosive rap verses from Drake and Wayne".<ref>{{cite journal|title=REVIEW: Nicki Minaj, Drake, Lil Wayne & Chris Brown Show Confident Presence on "Only" Ahead of 'The Pink Print' Release Date |url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/13687/20141028/review-nicki-minaj-drake-lil-wayne-chris-brown-only-listen.htm|journal=Music Times|date=28 October 2014|access-date=28 October 2014}}</ref> Brennan Carley from '']'' said ""Only" is Nicki at her dirtiest and smartest, rapping with metaphors that'd fly over other rappers' heads while keeping the glint of a knowing wink always in her eye."<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Nicki Minaj Spits Fire on YMCMB Posse Cut, 'Only'|url=https://www.spin.com/2014/10/nicki-minaj-chris-brown-drake-lil-wayne-only/|magazine=Spin|access-date=28 October 2014}}</ref> Miles Raymer from '']'' praised Minaj's rap and called it the best part of the song.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Nicki Minaj and some other, less important guys release 'Only'|url=http://music-mix.ew.com/2014/10/28/nicki-minaj-drake-lil-wayne-chris-brown-only/|magazine=Entertainment Weekly|access-date=28 October 2014}}</ref>


"Only" received generally positive reviews from critics. Carolyn Menyes from ] gave the song a positive review, saying "With a cool sense of confidence and rhymes that boast of her own sexual and rapping prowess, Minaj is taking the reins, leading into the equally vulgar and explosive rap verses from Drake and Wayne".<ref>{{cite web|title=REVIEW: Nicki Minaj, Drake, Lil Wayne & Chris Brown Show Confident Presence on "Only" Ahead of 'The Pink Print' Release Date |url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/13687/20141028/review-nicki-minaj-drake-lil-wayne-chris-brown-only-listen.htm|publisher=''Music Times''|accessdate=28 October 2014}}</ref> Brennan Carley from '']'' said ""Only" is Nicki at her dirtiest and smartest, rapping with metaphors that'd fly over other rappers' heads while keeping the glint of a knowing wink always in her eye."<ref>{{cite web|title=Nicki Minaj Spits Fire on YMCMB Posse Cut, 'Only'|url=http://www.spin.com/articles/nicki-minaj-chris-brown-drake-lil-wayne-only/|publisher=''Spin''|accessdate=28 October 2014}}</ref> Miles Raymer from ''Entertainment Weekly'' praised Minaj's rap and called it the best part of the song.<ref>{{cite web|title=Nicki Minaj and some other, less important guys release 'Only'|url=http://music-mix.ew.com/2014/10/28/nicki-minaj-drake-lil-wayne-chris-brown-only/|publisher=''Entertainment Weekly''|accessdate=28 October 2014}}</ref> Chris Coplan from ''Consequence of Sound'' said although it wasn't the strongest effort from the three, the song was "a great display of how their separate and distinct personalities can still play off one another nicely".<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Nicki Minaj teams with Drake and Lil Wayne for "Only" — listen|url=http://consequenceofsound.net/2014/10/nicki-minaj-teams-with-drake-and-lil-wayne-for-only-listen/|magazine=Consequence of Sound|access-date= 28 October 2014}}</ref> Drew Millard from Noisey praised Lil Wayne's verse and said "Minaj continues to rap laps around the competition and there's no indication that that's going to change any time soon".<ref>{{cite web|title=LISTEN TO NICKI MINAJ'S "ONLY," FEATURING DRAKE, LIL WAYNE, AND CHRIS BROWN|date=28 October 2014 |url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/listen-to-nicki-minajs-only-featuring-drake-lil-wayne-and-chris-brown|publisher=Noisey|access-date= 28 October 2014}}</ref>
Matthew Trammell of The Fader gave the song a negative review, saying Minaj delivers "sleepy lines" and comes off "a bit desperate".<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Nicki Minaj Releases New Single Feat. Drake, Lil Wayne, And Chris Brown, "Only"|url=http://www.thefader.com/2014/10/28/nicki-minaj-releases-new-single-feat-drake-lil-wayne-and-chris-brown-only|magazine=FADER|access-date= 28 October 2014}}</ref>

Chris Coplan from Consequence of Sound said although it wasn't the strongest effort from the three, the song was "a great display of how their separate and distinct personalities can still play off one another nicely".<ref>{{cite web|title=Nicki Minaj teams with Drake and Lil Wayne for "Only" — listen|url=http://consequenceofsound.net/2014/10/nicki-minaj-teams-with-drake-and-lil-wayne-for-only-listen/|publisher=''Consequence of Sound''|accessdate= 28 October 2014}}</ref> Drew Millard from Noisey praised Lil Wayne's verse and said "Minaj continues to rap laps around the competition and there's no indication that that's going to change any time soon".<ref>{{cite web|title=LISTEN TO NICKI MINAJ'S "ONLY," FEATURING DRAKE, LIL WAYNE, AND CHRIS BROWN|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/listen-to-nicki-minajs-only-featuring-drake-lil-wayne-and-chris-brown|publisher=''Noisey''|accessdate= 28 October 2014}}</ref>
Matthew Trammell of The Fader gave the song a negative review, saying Minaj delivers "sleepy lines" and comes off "a bit desperate".<ref>{{cite web|title=Nicki Minaj Releases New Single Feat. Drake, Lil Wayne, And Chris Brown, "Only"|url=http://www.thefader.com/2014/10/28/nicki-minaj-releases-new-single-feat-drake-lil-wayne-and-chris-brown-only|publisher=''FADER''|accessdate= 28 October 2014}}</ref>


===Commercial performance=== ===Commercial performance===
"Only" debuted at number 6 on the ] chart selling 76,000 digital downloads in its first week. The song debuted at number 54 on the ''Billboard'' Hot 100, and has so far peaked at number 12 on the chart. On the week ending December 14, 2014 "Only" rose from number ten to one on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, giving the artist her fourth number one, in doing so Minaj became the only female rap artists to score four number ones on the chart. Minaj surpassed Missy Elliot who scored three. The song also gave Drake his twelfth number one, Lil Wayne his ninth and Chris Brown his fifth.<ref>http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/chart-beat/6413959/nicki-minaj-record-breaking-no-1-hot-rbhip-hop-songs</ref> As of February 22, 2015, "Only" has sold 949,493 units in the United States.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hip Hop Single Sales: Rihanna, The Weeknd, Drake|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.32756/title.hip-hop-single-sales-rihanna-the-weeknd-drake|accessdate=March 1, 2015}} </ref> It has been certified 2x Platinum in the United States. "Only" debuted at number 54 on the US ''Billboard'' Hot 100, and peaked at number 12 on the chart. On the week ending December 14, 2014 the song rose from number ten to one on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, giving the artist her fourth number one, in doing so Minaj became the only female rap artist to score four number ones on the chart. Minaj surpassed ] who scored three. The song also gave Drake his twelfth number one, Lil Wayne his ninth and Chris Brown his fifth.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/chart-beat/6413959/nicki-minaj-record-breaking-no-1-hot-rbhip-hop-songs|title = Nicki Minaj Scores Record-Breaking No. 1 on Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs|magazine = ]|date = 19 December 2014}}</ref> On August 17, 2015, "Only" was certified 3× Platinum in the United States.<ref name=RIAA/> As of June 2016, the song has sold 1,471,110 copies in the United States.<ref name=Nielsen>{{Cite web|url=http://www.defjampromo.com/files/2009/10/BB-Digital-Songs-Chart-Wk.-Ending-6-23-16.pdf|date=2018-08-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180803224256/http://www.defjampromo.com/files/2009/10/BB-Digital-Songs-Chart-Wk.-Ending-6-23-16.pdf|access-date=2019-08-23|archive-date=2018-08-03|title=Nielsen SoundScan Charts}}</ref>


==Controversy== ==Lyric video==
Minaj released a lyric music video for the song in early November 2014, premiering close to the 25th anniversary of the fall of the ], with visualisations inspired by the ] Regime and the work of ].<ref name=billboardvideo>{{cite web|last1=Stutz|first1=Colin|title=Watch Nicki Minaj's Totalitarian 'Only' Lyric Video With Drake, Lil Wayne, Chris Brown|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/6312124/nicki-minajs-only-lyric-video-drake-lil-wayne-chris-brown|website=Billboard|accessdate=8 November 2014}}</ref> There was immediate backlash from fans, calling the video anti-semitic and insensitive. Many fans expressed their outrage on social media websites like ] and ].<ref name=huffpovideo>{{cite web|last1=Zupkus|first1=Lauren|title=People Aren't Happy With The Nazi Imagery In Nicki Minaj's 'Only' Lyric Video|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/11/09/nicki-minaj-only-lyric-video-nazi_n_6129892.html?utm_hp_ref=entertainment&ir=Entertainment|website=The Huffington Post|accessdate=10 November 2014}}</ref><ref name=ontd>{{cite web|title=Nicki Minaj Channels Hitler & Nazi Imagery in Lyric Video for "Only"|url=http://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/92233339.html|website=Oh No They Didn't|accessdate=8 November 2014}}</ref><ref name=smhnicki>{{cite web|last1=Zuel|first1=Bernard|title=Nicki Minaj accused of toying with Nazi imagery in Only clip|url=http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/music/nicki-minaj-accused-of-toying-with-nazi-imagery-in-only-clip-20141110-11jo70.html#ixzz3IeLyJi47|website=The Sunday Morning Herald|accessdate=10 November 2014}}</ref> Minaj released a lyric music video for the song in early November 2014, premiering close to the 25th anniversary of the ], with visualisations inspired by the ] and the work of ].<ref name=billboardvideo>{{cite magazine|last1=Stutz|first1=Colin|title=Watch Nicki Minaj's Totalitarian 'Only' Lyric Video With Drake, Lil Wayne, Chris Brown|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/6312124/nicki-minajs-only-lyric-video-drake-lil-wayne-chris-brown|magazine=Billboard|date=7 November 2014|access-date=8 November 2014}}</ref> There was immediate backlash from fans, calling the video ] and insensitive. Many fans expressed their outrage on social media websites like ] and ].<ref name=huffpovideo>{{cite web|last1=Zupkus|first1=Lauren|title=People Aren't Happy With The Nazi Imagery In Nicki Minaj's 'Only' Lyric Video|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/11/09/nicki-minaj-only-lyric-video-nazi_n_6129892.html?ir=Entertainment|website=The Huffington Post|date=9 November 2014|access-date=10 November 2014}}</ref><ref name=ontd>{{cite web|title=Nicki Minaj Channels Hitler & Nazi Imagery in Lyric Video for "Only"|url=http://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/92233339.html|website=Oh No They Didn't|date=7 November 2014 |access-date=8 November 2014}}</ref><ref name=smhnicki>{{citation |title=Nicki Minaj accused of toying with Nazi imagery in Only clip|url=http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/music/nicki-minaj-accused-of-toying-with-nazi-imagery-in-only-clip-20141110-11jo70.html#ixzz3IeLyJi47|website=The Sunday Morning Herald|date=10 November 2014|access-date=10 November 2014}}</ref>


] detailed the video, created by Jeff Osborne: "''Nicki is depicted as a powerful military leader in charge of an army that look suspiciously like a bunch SS officers. Red flags that feature a distorted, swastika-looking version of her initials are featured throughout the video. There’s a Nuremberg-esque parking lot for her tanks. And her soldiers are shown wearing Nazi-esque armbands.''"<ref name=buzzfeedvideo>{{cite web|last1=Dunlap|first1=Kelly|title=Nicki Minaj Accused Of Using Nazi Imagery In New Video|url=http://www.buzzfeed.com/kelleydunlap/nicki-minaj-only-video-nazi-imagery|website=Buzzfeed|publisher=Buzzfeed|accessdate=9 November 2014}}</ref> Osborne was inspired by conspiracy theorist ] in his creation of the video.<ref>http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/11/nicki-minaj-nazi-video-was-inspired-by-hero-alex-jones-director-reveals/</ref> ] pointed out that although Nicki Minaj is not the first entertainer to derive inspiration from Nazi imagery, "generally artists have refrained from using comparisons to Hitler's regime as a compliment."<ref name=gawkervideo>{{cite web|last1=Hongo|first1=Hudson|title=Critics Blast Nicki Minaj for Nazi-Inspired Music Video|url=http://gawker.com/critics-blast-nicki-minaj-for-nazi-inspired-music-video-1656595337|website=Gawker|accessdate=10 November 2014}}</ref> Guest-rapper Drake, who is Jewish, was also criticized for his involvement in the video.<ref name=jpostvideo>{{cite web|title=Nicki Minaj comes under fire for alleged use of Nazi imagery in new music video|url=http://www.jpost.com/Diaspora/Niki-Minaj-comes-under-fire-for-alleged-use-of-Nazi-imagery-in-new-music-video-381255|website=The Jerusalem Post|accessdate=10 November 2014}}</ref> ] detailed the video, created by Jeff Osborne: "Nicki is depicted as a powerful military leader in charge of an army that look suspiciously like a bunch ] officers. Red flags that feature a distorted, ]-looking version of her initials are featured throughout the video. There's a ]-esque parking lot for her tanks. And her soldiers are shown wearing ]-esque ]."<ref name=buzzfeedvideo>{{cite web|last1=Dunlap|first1=Kelly|title=Nicki Minaj Accused Of Using Nazi Imagery In New Video|url=https://www.buzzfeed.com/kelleydunlap/nicki-minaj-only-video-nazi-imagery|website=Buzzfeed|date=8 November 2014 |access-date=9 November 2014}}</ref> Osborne was inspired by conspiracy theorist ] in his creation of the video.<ref>{{cite web|first=David|last=Ferguson|title=Nicki Minaj 'Nazi' video was inspired by 'hero' Alex Jones, director reveals|url=http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/11/nicki-minaj-nazi-video-was-inspired-by-hero-alex-jones-director-reveals/|website=]|date=14 November 2014|access-date=3 December 2020}}</ref> '']'' pointed out that although Minaj is not the first entertainer to derive inspiration from Nazi imagery, "generally artists have refrained from using comparisons to ]'s regime as a compliment."<ref name=gawkervideo>{{cite web|last1=Hongo|first1=Hudson|title=Critics Blast Nicki Minaj for Nazi-Inspired Music Video|url=http://gawker.com/critics-blast-nicki-minaj-for-nazi-inspired-music-video-1656595337|website=Gawker|date=9 November 2014 |access-date=10 November 2014}}</ref> Guest-rapper Drake, who is ], was also criticized for his involvement in the video.<ref name=jpostvideo>{{cite web|title=Nicki Minaj comes under fire for alleged use of Nazi imagery in new music video|url=http://www.jpost.com/Diaspora/Niki-Minaj-comes-under-fire-for-alleged-use-of-Nazi-imagery-in-new-music-video-381255|website=The Jerusalem Post|date=9 November 2014 |access-date=10 November 2014}}</ref>


Minaj later issued a statement on the video via her Twitter account, "I didn't come up with the concept, but I'm very sorry and take full responsibility if it has offended anyone. I'd never condone Nazism in my art," also citing that her producer is Jewish.<ref name=nicktwitterresponse1>{{cite web|last1=Maraj|first1=Onika|title=NICKI MINAJ on Twitter|url=https://twitter.com/NICKIMINAJ/status/532153631588376576|website=Twitter|accessdate=11 November 2014}}</ref> The artist behind the video, Jeff Osborne, refused to apologize for the video, confirming that the imagery used was indeed inspired by Nazism: "...if my work is misinterpreted because it’s not a sappy tearjerker, sorry I’m not sorry." Neither Minaj nor Osborne responded to criticism that the video was released on the anniversary of the ].<ref name=pitchforkref>{{cite web|last1=Camp|first1=Zoe|title=Nicki Minaj Responds to Accusations of Nazi Imagery|url=http://pitchfork.com/news/57406-nicki-minaj-responds-to-accusations-of-nazi-imagery-in-only-lyric-video/|website=Pitchbook|accessdate=11 November 2014}}</ref> Minaj tweeted that Osborne was influenced by the '']'' ] music video for "The Gears" as well as '']'' when creating the music video. Brandon Small, creator of ''Metalocalypse'' responded to the comparison, stating that "They seem to be confused about art" before deconstructing the meaning behind both videos. He also added that he does not believe Minaj had poor intentions.<ref></ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.metalinsider.net/video/metalocalypse-creator-brendon-small-comments-on-nicki-minaj-video |title=Metalocalypse creator Brendon Small on Nicki Minaj video: ‘They seem to be confused about art’ |publisher=Metal Insider |date=November 12, 2014 |accessdate=November 12, 2014 |author=Bram Teitelman }}</ref> Minaj later issued a statement on the video via her Twitter account, "I didn't come up with the concept, but I'm very sorry and take full responsibility if it has offended anyone. I'd never condone ] in my art," also citing that her producer is Jewish.<ref name=nicktwitterresponse1>{{cite tweet|number=532153631588376576|user=NICKIMINAJ|title=I didn't come up w/the concept, but I'm very sorry &amp; take full responsibility if it has offended anyone. I'd never condone Nazism in my art.<!-- full text of tweet that Twitter returned to the bot (excluding links) added by TweetCiteBot. This may be better truncated or may need expanding (TW limits responses to 140 characters) or case changes. --> |accessdate=11 November 2014|date=11 November 2014}}</ref> The artist behind the video, Jeff Osborne, refused to apologize for the video, confirming that the imagery used was indeed inspired by Nazism: "...if my work is misinterpreted because it's not a sappy tearjerker, sorry I'm not sorry." Neither Nicki Minaj nor Osborne responded to criticism that the video was released on the anniversary of '']''.<ref name=pitchforkref>{{cite web|last1=Camp|first1=Zoe|title=Nicki Minaj Responds to Accusations of Nazi Imagery|url=http://pitchfork.com/news/57406-nicki-minaj-responds-to-accusations-of-nazi-imagery-in-only-lyric-video/|website=Pitchbook|date=11 November 2014|access-date=11 November 2014}}</ref> Nicki Minaj tweeted that Osborne was influenced by the '']'' ] music video for "The Gears" as well as '']'' when creating the music video. Brandon Small, creator of ''Metalocalypse'' responded to the comparison, stating that "They seem to be confused about art" before deconstructing the meaning behind both videos. He also added that he does not believe Nicki Minaj had poor intentions.<ref></ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.metalinsider.net/video/metalocalypse-creator-brendon-small-comments-on-nicki-minaj-video |title=Metalocalypse creator Brendon Small on Nicki Minaj video: 'They seem to be confused about art' |publisher=Metal Insider |date=November 12, 2014 |access-date=November 12, 2014 |author=Bram Teitelman }}</ref>


==Music video== ==Music video==
The accompanying music video for "Only", which was directed by ], premiered on December 12, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2014/12/12/video-nicki-minaj-f-drake-lil-wayne-chris-brown-only/|title=VIDEO: NICKI MINAJ F/ DRAKE, LIL WAYNE, & CHRIS BROWN – ‘ONLY’|date=December 12, 2014|accessdate=December 14, 2014|publisher=''Rap-Up''}}</ref> The video opens with an injured man lying on the floor in what appears to be a chamber. He is then taken to room were many other tortured men are tied up in a room. The video then cuts to Minaj who is wearing black-feathered lingerie. She raps wearing a sheer getup and sky-high platform heels. Minaj and Drake standing side by side while Nicki dons what looks like a black lace wedding veil. Minaj, Wayne, and Drake stand in a run-down dungeon as Minaj continues to rap. The accompanying music video for "Only", directed by ], premiered on December 12, 2014.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2014/12/12/video-nicki-minaj-f-drake-lil-wayne-chris-brown-only/|title=VIDEO: NICKI MINAJ F/ DRAKE, LIL WAYNE, AND CHRIS BROWN – 'ONLY'|date=December 12, 2014|access-date=December 14, 2014|magazine=Rap-Up}}</ref> The video opens with an injured man lying on the floor in what appears to be a chamber. He is then taken to a room where many other tortured men are tied up in a room. The video then cuts to Minaj who is wearing black-feathered lingerie. She raps, wearing a sheer getup and sky-high platform heels. Minaj and Drake stand side by side while Minaj dons what looks like a black lace wedding veil. Minaj, Wayne, and Drake stand in a run-down dungeon as Minaj continues to sing. While Chris Brown’s part of the song was filmed at a different location due to schedule conflicts, he also appears in the video as he sings the chorus.

The video features cameo appearances from ] and ], among others.

The music video for "Only" was awarded with the ] Viewers' Choice Awards for Best Video at the ]. This was an award in which fans voted online.

As of December 31, 2024, the music video has more than 552 million views.


==Live performances== ==Live performances==
On December 6, 2014, Minaj first performed the song on '']''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2014/12/06/video-nicki-minaj-snl-performance//|title=NICKI MINAJ PERFORMS ON ‘SNL’|date=December 7, 2014|accessdate=December 7, 2014|publisher=''Rap-Up''}}</ref> The rapper also performed the song during ].<ref>{{cite web|last=Unrath|first=Patrick|title=All for the Ass:Nicki Minaj Live at the Festhalle Frankfurt|url=http://www.regioactive.de/review/2015/03/21/alle-fuer-den-arsch-nicki-minaj-live-in-der-festhalle-frankfurt-z3xFFZg3m0.html|work=Regioactive|language=German|date=March 21, 2015|accessdate=March 21, 2015}}</ref> On December 6, 2014, Minaj first performed the song on '']''.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2014/12/06/video-nicki-minaj-snl-performance//|title=NICKI MINAJ PERFORMS ON 'SNL'|date=December 7, 2014|access-date=December 7, 2014|magazine=Rap-Up}}</ref> The rapper also performed the song during ].<ref>{{cite web|last=Unrath|first=Patrick|title=All for the Ass:Nicki Minaj Live at the Festhalle Frankfurt|url=http://www.regioactive.de/review/2015/03/21/alle-fuer-den-arsch-nicki-minaj-live-in-der-festhalle-frankfurt-z3xFFZg3m0.html|work=Regioactive|language=de|date=March 21, 2015|access-date=March 21, 2015}}</ref> On May 30, 2015, she also performed the song on the iHeartRadio Summer Pool Party 2015 in ].<ref>{{citation|work=]|access-date=31 May 2015|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2015/05/31/chris-brown-nicki-minaj-perform-at-iheartradio-summer-pool-party/|title=CHRIS BROWN, NICKI MINAJ PERFORM AT IHEARTRADIO SUMMER POOL PARTY|date=31 May 2015}}</ref>

==Charts==
{{col-begin}}
{{col-2}}


=== Weekly charts ===
==Charts and certifications==
{|class="wikitable plainrowheaders sortable" style="text-align:center"
===Weekly charts===
{| class="wikitable sortable plainrowheaders"
|- |-
!scope="col"|Chart (2014-15) !scope="col"|Chart (2014–2015)
!scope="col"|Peak<br>position !scope="col"|Peak<br />position
|- |-
!scope="row"| Australia (])<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.noise11.com/news/ed-sheeran-spends-5th-week-on-top-of-aria-singles-20141115|title=Ed Sheeran Spends 5th Week On Top Of ARIA Singles|first=Gavin|last=Ryan|work={{no italic|Noise11}}|publisher=Noise Network|date=November 15, 2014|accessdate=November 15, 2014}}</ref> !scope="row"| Australia (])<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.noise11.com/news/ed-sheeran-spends-5th-week-on-top-of-aria-singles-20141115|title=Ed Sheeran Spends 5th Week On Top Of ARIA Singles|first=Gavin|last=Ryan|work=Noise11|publisher=Noise Network|date=November 15, 2014|access-date=November 15, 2014}}</ref>
|style="text-align:center;"|62 |style="text-align:center;"|62
|- |-
!scope="row"| Australian Urban (])<ref>{{cite web | url=http://ariacharts.com.au/chart/urban-singles/3129 |title=ARIA Australian Top 40 Urban Singles - ARIA Charts | publisher=ARIA Charts|date=29 December 2014|accessdate=3 January 2015}}</ref> !scope="row"| Australian Urban (])<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ariacharts.com.au/chart/urban-singles/3129|title=ARIA Australian Top 40 Urban Singles - ARIA Charts|publisher=ARIA Charts|date=29 December 2014|access-date=3 January 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150103071257/http://ariacharts.com.au/chart/urban-singles/3129|archive-date=3 January 2015}}</ref>
| style="text-align:center;"| 9 | style="text-align:center;"| 9
|- |-
{{singlechart|Flanders Tip|39|artist=Nicki Minaj feat. Drake, Lil Wayne & Chris Brown|song=Only|rowheader=true|accessdate=November 15, 2014}} {{singlechart|Flanders Tip|39|artist=Nicki Minaj feat. Drake, Lil Wayne & Chris Brown|song=Only|rowheader=true|access-date=November 15, 2014}}
|- |-
{{singlechart|Flanders Urban|14|artist=Nicki Minaj feat. Drake, Lil Wayne & Chris Brown|song=Only|rowheader=true|accessdate=November 15, 2014}} {{singlechart|Flanders Urban|14|artist=Nicki Minaj feat. Drake, Lil Wayne & Chris Brown|song=Only|rowheader=true|access-date=November 15, 2014}}
|- |-
{{singlechart|Wallonia Tip|34|artist=Nicki Minaj feat. Drake, Lil Wayne & Chris Brown|song=Only|rowheader=true|accessdate=November 15, 2014}} {{singlechart|Wallonia Tip|34|artist=Nicki Minaj feat. Drake, Lil Wayne & Chris Brown|song=Only|rowheader=true|access-date=November 15, 2014}}
|- |-
{{singlechart|Billboardcanadianhot100|20|artist=Nicki Minaj|song=Only|artistid={{BillboardID|Nicki Minaj}}|refname=canhot100|rowheader=true}} {{singlechart|Billboardcanadianhot100|20|artist=Nicki Minaj|song=Only|artistid={{BillboardID|Nicki Minaj}}|refname=canhot100|rowheader=true}}
|- |-
{{singlechart|France|102|artist=Nicki Minaj feat. Drake, Lil Wayne & Chris Brown|song=Only|rowheader=true|accessdate=November 15, 2014}} {{singlechart|France|102|artist=Nicki Minaj feat. Drake, Lil Wayne & Chris Brown|song=Only|rowheader=true|access-date=November 15, 2014}}
|- |-
! scope="row"| Netherlands (])<ref>{{cite web|url=https://dutchcharts.nl/showitem.asp?interpret=Nicki+Minaj+feat%2E+Drake%2C+Lil+Wayne+%26+Chris+Brown&titel=Only&cat=s
{{singlechart|Scotland|36|date=2014-11-15|artist=Nicki Minaj|rowheader=true|accessdate=November 10, 2014}}
|title=Dutch Single Tip 22/11/2014|access-date=January 15, 2024}}</ref>
| 20
|- |-
{{singlechart|UK|35|date=2014-11-15|artist=Nicki Minaj|rowheader=true|accessdate=November 10, 2014}} {{singlechart|Scotland|36|date=2014-11-15|artist=Nicki Minaj|rowheader=true|access-date=November 10, 2014}}
|- |-
{{singlechart|UKrandb|4|date=2014-11-15|artist=Nicki Minaj|rowheader=true|accessdate=November 10, 2014}} {{singlechart|UK|35|date=2014-11-15|artist=Nicki Minaj|rowheader=true|access-date=November 10, 2014}}
|- |-
{{singlechart|Billboardhot100|12|artist=Nicki Minaj|refname=ushot100|rowheader=true|accessdate=December 23, 2014}} {{singlechart|UKrandb|4|date=2014-11-15|artist=Nicki Minaj|rowheader=true|access-date=November 10, 2014}}
|- |-
{{singlechart|Billboardrandbhiphop|1|artist=NickiMinaj|refname=usrnb|rowheader=true|accessdate=December 23, 2014}} {{singlechart|Billboardhot100|12|artist=Nicki Minaj|refname=ushot100|rowheader=true|access-date=December 23, 2014}}
|- |-
{{singlechart|Billboardrhythmic|6|artist=Nicki Minaj|rowheader=true|accessdate=January 13, 2015}} {{singlechart|Billboardrandbhiphop|1|artist=Nicki Minaj|refname=usrnb|rowheader=true|access-date=December 23, 2014}}
|-
{{singlechart|Billboardrandbhiphopairplay|2|artist=Nicki Minaj|rowheader=true|access-date=December 19, 2023}}
|-
{{singlechart|Billboardrhythmic|6|artist=Nicki Minaj|rowheader=true|access-date=January 13, 2015}}
|- |-
|} |}
{{col-2}}
<!-- Before adding any other US charts please review/consult ] & ]. -->


===Certifications=== ===Year-end charts===
{|class="wikitable plainrowheaders sortable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! scope="col"| Chart (2015)
! scope="col"| Position
|-
! scope="row"| US ''Billboard'' Hot 100<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Hot 100 Songs Year End 2015|url=http://www.billboard.com/charts/year-end/2015/hot-100-songs|magazine=Billboard|date=2 January 2013|publisher=Prometheus Global Media|access-date=9 December 2015}}</ref>
| 51
|-
! scope="row"| US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (''Billboard'')<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/charts/year-end/2015/hot-r-and-and-b-hip-hop-songs|title=Year-end - US Hot R&B/Hop-hop Songs|magazine=Billboard.com|access-date=2015-12-09}}</ref>
| style="text-align:center;"|16
|-
! scope="row"| US Rhythmic (''Billboard'')<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/charts/year-end/2015/rhythmic-songs|title=Rhythmic Songs – Year-End 2015|magazine=Billboard|date=9 December 2014|access-date=4 October 2019}}</ref>
| 35
|}
{{col-end}}

==Certifications==
{{Certification Table Top}} {{Certification Table Top}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=Australia|artist=Nicki Minaj|title=Only|award=Platinum|number=3|type=single|relyear=2014|certyear=2024|access-date=March 10, 2024}}
{{Certification Table Entry|title=Only|artist=Nicki Minaj|autocat=yes|type=single|region=United States|salesamount=1,180,000|award=2x Platinum|relyear=2014|certyear=2015|accessdate=February 12, 2015|certref=<ref>{{cite journal|url=http://riaa.com/media/34F32E7E-E368-F10E-CF8E-3C0971C45702.pdf|title=RIAA Gold, Platinum and Multi- Platinum Awards from 1/1/2015 to 1/31/2015|format=PDF|publisher=]|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20150213145037/http://riaa.com/media/34F32E7E-E368-F10E-CF8E-3C0971C45702.pdf|archivedate= February 13, 2015}}</ref>}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=Brazil|artist=Nicki Minaj|title=Only|award=Platinum|type=single|relyear=2014|certyear=2024|access-date=July 4, 2024}}
{{Certification Table Bottom}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=New Zealand|artist=Nicki Minajtitle=Only|type=single|award=Platinum|relyear=2015|access-date=December 25, 2024|certyear=2020|source=radioscope}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=United Kingdom|award=Platinum|type=single|artist=Nicki Minaj|title=Only|relyear=2014|certyear=2023|access-date=May 13, 2023|id=13873-4235-1}}
{{Certification Table Entry|title=Only|artist=Nicki Minaj|type=single|region=United States|salesamount=3,000,000|salesref=<ref name=Nielsen/>|award=Platinum|number=3|relyear=2014|certyear=2015|date=August 17, 2015|access-date=June 22, 2016|refname=RIAA}}
{{Certification Table Bottom|streaming=true|noshipments=true|nosales=true}}


==Release history== ==Release history==
Line 150: Line 196:
!scope="col"|Label !scope="col"|Label
|- |-
! rowspan="2"|United States |rowspan="3"|United States
|rowspan="4"|October 28, 2014 |October 28, 2014
|rowspan="15"|] |]
|rowspan="16"|{{flat list| |rowspan="3"| {{Flat list|
*] *]
*] *]
*] *]}}
|-
}}
| rowspan="2"|November 4, 2014
| Rhythmic radio<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fmqb.com/Article.asp?id=69239#2015 |title=FMQB: Radio Industry News, Music Industry Updates, Arbitron Ratings, Music News and more! |website=www.fmqb.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051031190339/http://fmqb.com/Article.asp?id=69239 |archive-date=2005-10-31}} </ref>
|-
| Urban radio<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.youngmoney.com/search/Only/post/9010/nicki-minaj-sets-urban-radio-record-with-only#.VXGdhGQayc1 |title=Nicki Minaj Sets Urban Radio Record with "Only" / Young Money |access-date=2015-06-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150605195839/http://www.youngmoney.com/search/Only/post/9010/nicki-minaj-sets-urban-radio-record-with-only#.VXGdhGQayc1 |archive-date=2015-06-05 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
|} |}


Line 164: Line 214:


==References== ==References==
{{reflist|2}} {{Reflist|30em}}


==External links==
{{YouTube|zXtsGAkyeIo|"Only"}}
{{Nicki Minaj singles}} {{Nicki Minaj singles}}
{{Chris Brown singles}}
{{Drake songs}} {{Drake songs}}
{{Lil Wayne singles}} {{Lil Wayne singles}}
{{Chris Brown singles}}
{{BET Award for Viewer's Choice}}
{{Authority control}}


] ]
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Latest revision as of 15:30, 31 December 2024

2014 single by Nicki Minaj featuring Drake, Lil Wayne and Chris Brown
"Only"
Single by Nicki Minaj featuring Drake, Lil Wayne and Chris Brown
from the album The Pinkprint
ReleasedOctober 28, 2014 (2014-10-28)
Recorded2014
GenreHip hop
Length5:12
4:59 (album edit – international deluxe)
Label
Songwriter(s)
Producer(s)
Nicki Minaj singles chronology
"Touchin, Lovin"
(2014) 		"Only"
(2014) 		"Bed of Lies"
(2014)
Chris Brown singles chronology
"Hold You Down"
(2014) 		"Only"
(2014) 		"Post to Be"
(2014)
Drake singles chronology
"Tuesday"
(2014) 		"Only"
(2014) 		"Truffle Butter"
(2015)
Lil Wayne singles chronology
"Grindin"
(2014) 		"Only"
(2014) 		"Start a Fire"
(2014)
Music video
"Only" on YouTube

"Only" is a song by Trinidadian-born rapper Nicki Minaj featuring Canadian rapper Drake, American rapper Lil Wayne, and American singer Chris Brown, from her third studio album, The Pinkprint (2014). It was released on October 28, 2014 by Young Money Entertainment, Cash Money Records, and Republic Records as the third single from the album. The rappers wrote the song with producers Dr. Luke, Cirkut, and JMIKE, with production assistance from HBM and Rock City. "Only" is a hip-hop song that contains an "icy" production that sits "ominously" underneath dirty lyrical metaphors.

"Only" peaked at number 12 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number one on the US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, giving Nicki Minaj her fourth number one on the latter chart and making her the first female rap artist to do so. The song was certified triple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The song received a nomination for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration at the 58th Grammy Awards.

Both a lyric video and an official video were released to promote the song. The lyric video was released in November 2014, premiering close to the 25th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, with visualizations inspired by the Nazi regime of Germany and the work of Leni Riefenstahl. There was immediate backlash from fans, calling the video anti-semitic and insensitive, although Nicki Minaj stated she was not involved in the production of the lyric video and said she regrets not overseeing it before it was posted to YouTube. The song's accompanying music video, released the following month and directed by Hannah Lux Davis, premiered on December 12, 2014.

Background and release

During an interview with Capital Xtra in June 2013, Minaj stated that she hoped Drake would appear on the album continuing to say "We're supposed to meet up this week to get some stuff crack-a-ling in the studio. I think there'll be another feature on the album that will blow people away. I'm super excited about that too, but it's obviously a secret!". On October 26, 2014, Minaj posted the single cover on Instagram, informing fans that this would be the third single off her upcoming album The Pinkprint. The cover art for the song was an illustration that depicts Minaj in a superhero catsuit, Drake as the pope, and Lil Wayne in a suit and tie. "Only" was released for digital download as the third single from the album on October 28, 2014.

Recording

Speaking to Revolt in November 2019, Minaj's sound engineer Big Juice recalled how Minaj reacted after she received Chris Brown's vocals for the chorus: "I remember when we did 'Only' and got the Chris Brown vocals back for that. She was jumping up and screaming, 'This is a fucking hit'."

Reception

Critical reception

"Only" A 29-second sample of "Only" by Nicki Minaj featuring Drake, Lil Wayne and Chris Brown, where the chorus and part of Drake's verse is heard.
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Carolyn Menyes from Music Times gave the song a positive review, saying "With a cool sense of confidence and rhymes that boast of her own sexual and rapping prowess, Minaj is taking the reins, leading into the equally vulgar and explosive rap verses from Drake and Wayne". Brennan Carley from Spin said ""Only" is Nicki at her dirtiest and smartest, rapping with metaphors that'd fly over other rappers' heads while keeping the glint of a knowing wink always in her eye." Miles Raymer from EW praised Minaj's rap and called it the best part of the song.

Chris Coplan from Consequence of Sound said although it wasn't the strongest effort from the three, the song was "a great display of how their separate and distinct personalities can still play off one another nicely". Drew Millard from Noisey praised Lil Wayne's verse and said "Minaj continues to rap laps around the competition and there's no indication that that's going to change any time soon". Matthew Trammell of The Fader gave the song a negative review, saying Minaj delivers "sleepy lines" and comes off "a bit desperate".

Commercial performance

"Only" debuted at number 54 on the US Billboard Hot 100, and peaked at number 12 on the chart. On the week ending December 14, 2014 the song rose from number ten to one on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, giving the artist her fourth number one, in doing so Minaj became the only female rap artist to score four number ones on the chart. Minaj surpassed Missy Elliott who scored three. The song also gave Drake his twelfth number one, Lil Wayne his ninth and Chris Brown his fifth. On August 17, 2015, "Only" was certified 3× Platinum in the United States. As of June 2016, the song has sold 1,471,110 copies in the United States.

Lyric video

Minaj released a lyric music video for the song in early November 2014, premiering close to the 25th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, with visualisations inspired by the Nazi Regime and the work of Leni Riefenstahl. There was immediate backlash from fans, calling the video anti-semitic and insensitive. Many fans expressed their outrage on social media websites like Twitter and Tumblr.

BuzzFeed detailed the video, created by Jeff Osborne: "Nicki is depicted as a powerful military leader in charge of an army that look suspiciously like a bunch SS officers. Red flags that feature a distorted, swastika-looking version of her initials are featured throughout the video. There's a Nuremberg-esque parking lot for her tanks. And her soldiers are shown wearing Nazi-esque armbands." Osborne was inspired by conspiracy theorist Alex Jones in his creation of the video. Gawker pointed out that although Minaj is not the first entertainer to derive inspiration from Nazi imagery, "generally artists have refrained from using comparisons to Hitler's regime as a compliment." Guest-rapper Drake, who is Jewish, was also criticized for his involvement in the video.

Minaj later issued a statement on the video via her Twitter account, "I didn't come up with the concept, but I'm very sorry and take full responsibility if it has offended anyone. I'd never condone Nazism in my art," also citing that her producer is Jewish. The artist behind the video, Jeff Osborne, refused to apologize for the video, confirming that the imagery used was indeed inspired by Nazism: "...if my work is misinterpreted because it's not a sappy tearjerker, sorry I'm not sorry." Neither Nicki Minaj nor Osborne responded to criticism that the video was released on the anniversary of Kristallnacht. Nicki Minaj tweeted that Osborne was influenced by the Metalocalypse Dethklok music video for "The Gears" as well as Sin City when creating the music video. Brandon Small, creator of Metalocalypse responded to the comparison, stating that "They seem to be confused about art" before deconstructing the meaning behind both videos. He also added that he does not believe Nicki Minaj had poor intentions.

Music video

The accompanying music video for "Only", directed by Hannah Lux Davis, premiered on December 12, 2014. The video opens with an injured man lying on the floor in what appears to be a chamber. He is then taken to a room where many other tortured men are tied up in a room. The video then cuts to Minaj who is wearing black-feathered lingerie. She raps, wearing a sheer getup and sky-high platform heels. Minaj and Drake stand side by side while Minaj dons what looks like a black lace wedding veil. Minaj, Wayne, and Drake stand in a run-down dungeon as Minaj continues to sing. While Chris Brown’s part of the song was filmed at a different location due to schedule conflicts, he also appears in the video as he sings the chorus.

The video features cameo appearances from DJ Khaled and Birdman, among others.

The music video for "Only" was awarded with the Coca-Cola Viewers' Choice Awards for Best Video at the 2015 BET Awards. This was an award in which fans voted online.

As of December 31, 2024, the music video has more than 552 million views.

Live performances

On December 6, 2014, Minaj first performed the song on Saturday Night Live. The rapper also performed the song during The Pinkprint Tour. On May 30, 2015, she also performed the song on the iHeartRadio Summer Pool Party 2015 in Las Vegas.

Charts

Weekly charts

Chart (2014–2015) Peak
position
Australia (ARIA) 62
Australian Urban (ARIA) 9
Belgium (Ultratip Bubbling Under Flanders) 39
Belgium Urban (Ultratop Flanders) 14
Belgium (Ultratip Bubbling Under Wallonia) 34
Canada (Canadian Hot 100) 20
France (SNEP) 102
Netherlands (Single Tip) 20
Scotland (OCC) 36
UK Singles (OCC) 35
UK Hip Hop/R&B (OCC) 4
US Billboard Hot 100 12
US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (Billboard) 1
US R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay (Billboard) 2
US Rhythmic (Billboard) 6

Year-end charts

Chart (2015) Position
US Billboard Hot 100 51
US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (Billboard) 16
US Rhythmic (Billboard) 35

Certifications

Region Certification Certified units/sales
Australia (ARIA) 3× Platinum 210,000
Brazil (Pro-Música Brasil) Platinum 60,000
New Zealand (RMNZ) Platinum 30,000
United Kingdom (BPI) Platinum 600,000
United States (RIAA) 3× Platinum 3,000,000

Sales+streaming figures based on certification alone.

Release history

Country Date Format Label
United States October 28, 2014 Digital download
November 4, 2014 Rhythmic radio
Urban radio

See also

References

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