I said yes to your number
And yes to you dating me
Yes, we can be together
But you gotta wait for me
The first time I say no
It’s like I never said yes (It’s like I never said yes)
I said yes, we can be together
Yes, you can stay with me
But when I say no, not tonight
You actin’ so ungratefully
The first time I say no
It’s like I never said yes (It’s like I never said yes)
You was on the wall
I was with my crew
You was watchin’ me, baby
I was watchin’ you
Slowly you walked over
I maintained my cool
You said hello to me
I said hello to you
You asked me where I’m from
I asked you what you do
You somehow intrigued me
I thought you were so cool
Somewhere between hi and goodbye, I felt so comfortable
I felt like we could talk all night, so I gave my number to you
I said yes to your number
And yes to you dating me
Yes, we can be together
But you gotta wait for me
The first time I say no
It’s like I never said yes (It’s like I never said yes)
I said yes, we can be together
Yes, you can stay with me
But when I say no, not tonight
You actin’ so ungratefully
The first time I say no
It’s like I never said yes (It’s like I never said yes)
Certainly, you can call me, baby
I love to hear from you
Yes, of course, you can come and see me, boy
Wanna get to know you more
Sure, I’m feelin’ you
“No, baby, not yet, we can’t take that next step”
Why you getting so upset?
Boy, you act as though I never told you yes before
You are so ungrateful, mm-mm-mmm
You was at my house
I was sittin’ on my couch
You was really buggin’, so I
Told you to get out
I had been misjudging you
You had a lotta nerve
You too damn old to be so immature
I hope you learn
You said I move too slow
I showed you to the door
You said you’d call me later
I said don’t call no more
It is cool if you can’t wait for me
I’m glad you let me know
‘Cause you showed me your true face, baby
The first time I said no
I said yes to your number
And yes to you dating me
Yes, we can be together
But you gotta wait for me
The first time I say no
It’s like I never said yes (It’s like I never said yes)
I said yes, we can be together
Yes, you can stay with me
But when I say no, not tonight
You actin’ so ungratefully
The first time I say no
It’s like I never said yes (It’s like I never said yes)
I said yes to your number
And yes to you dating me
Yes, we can be together
But you gotta wait for me
The first time I say no
It’s like I never said yes (It’s like I never said yes)
Understanding the Power Dynamics in “Yes”
Beyoncé’s “Yes” explores themes of boundaries, respect, and empowerment in romantic relationships. The lyrics depict a journey of initial attraction and consent, where Beyoncé’s character is clear about her willingness to connect, but equally firm about her limits. The repetition of “yes” followed by the crucial “no” highlights the importance of consent being respected at every step. When her boundaries are tested, she stands her ground, reinforcing that a single “no” does not erase all previous affirmations. This narrative champions self-respect and sends a powerful message about the necessity for understanding and gratitude in relationships.
Song Credits
- Artist: Beyoncé
- Songwriters: Beyoncé Knowles, Walter W. Millsap III, Candice Nelson, A. Hills, J. Sayles
- Release Year: 2003
- Label: Columbia Records