It was written by Monica, Ty Dolla Sign, Tasha Catour and Cousin band members Briana Hightower, Dana Johnson, and Robert Milton for her ninth studio album.

[3] "Friends" was co-written by Rob Milton, Dana Johnson, and Briana "Kreion" Hightower of the Atlanta group Cousin, while production was overseen by Tasha Catour.

He found that "the song reaches its climax during the bridge, as the two singers trade vocal runs, their voices — one elegant, one raw and textured — weaving into a mighty crescendo.

"[7] Megan Grosfeld from Enspire noted that "Monica's emotions of an unbreakable bond for a special someone swell over the acoustic-lined production accompanied by a hard-hitting bass.

[5] Set in a California desert during a sandstorm and freezing temperatures, the visual opens with a dance number choreographed by New Zealand entertainer Parris Goebel.