Lana Del Rey and Quavo’s genre-blending collaboration, ‘Tough’, has finally arrived, much to the delight of fans who have been eagerly awaiting its release. The track, which has been teased for weeks through snippets and live performances, is accompanied by a visually stunning countryside music video directed by Wyatt Spain Winfrey.
The video is set against a rural backdrop with a picturesque haze, showcasing the ‘Summertime Sadness’ singer and the Migos rapper as a guitar-loving, shotgun-toting couple. They bond over enduring life’s trials, creating an intimate and cosy atmosphere. Del Rey and Quavo’s chemistry is palpable as they share bear hugs in front of a rustic mansion and cuddle in a grassy field. In one scene, they tease almost-kisses, while in another, Del Rey sits lovingly on Quavo’s lap on a cottage porch, guitar in hand.
Also Read: Billie Eilish Opens Up About Romantic Vulnerability and Self-Discovery With Lana Del Rey
Del Rey’s breathy chorus captures the essence of the song: ‘Tough like the scuff on a pair of old leather boots’ / ‘Like the blue-collar, red-dirt attitude’ / ‘Like a .38 made out of brass’ / Tough like the stuff in your grandpa’s glass’. The video highlights their bond as they navigate the trials of life together. The duo trades off lyrics in the second verse, creating a seamless blend of their styles over a country-trap beat, produced by Andrew Watt and Cirkut and co-written by Clayton Johnson.
This collaboration marks Del Rey’s first with a rapper since her 2017 album, ‘Lust for Life’, which featured A$AP Rocky and Playboi Carti. The anticipation built with a sneak peek on Instagram and a debut performance at Del Rey’s headlining show at Boston’s Fenway Park.
Earlier this year, Del Rey announced her plans to release a country album titled ‘Lasso’ in 2024, expected to drop in September. She shared the news during the Billboard x NMPA Songwriter Awards, highlighting the music industry’s shift towards country. Del Rey mentioned that she and Jack Antonoff have been exploring the country scene in Muscle Shoals, Nashville, and Mississippi over the past four years.
In a conversation with NME in May, Del Rey teased her upcoming album again, expressing excitement about the music industry’s embrace of country influences. She humorously welcomed Nashville to Hollywood and vice versa, signalling a significant genre shift in her musical journey.
-Sushmita Sarkar