Musically, "Marilyn Monroe" is an introspective mid-tempo ballad that contains an upbeat piano, synth beats, and features influences of bubblegum pop.
[1] "Marilyn Monroe" was generally well received by music critics, with some noting its crossover potential, while others felt like the song was too similar to other artists.
The album focuses on Roman Zolanski, one of Minaj's alter egos that was first featured on Pink Friday.
[3] J.R. Rotem, who previously produced a track for Minaj's debut album, originally conceived "Marilyn Monroe".
[5] Musically, "Marilyn Monroe" is an introspective mid-tempo ballad that contains an upbeat piano, synth beats, and features influences of bubblegum pop.
[7] Celebrity Marilyn Monroe is mentioned numerous times throughout the song, including the quote "I'm selfish, impatient and a little insecure.
[8] "Marilyn Monroe" had the most votes and won the poll; "Young Forever" came in second, "Fire Burns" came in third, and "Gun Shot" came in fourth.
"[10] Andy Gill of The Independent called it one of the most impressive songs on the pop half of the album and also encouraged fans to download it.
[11] BBC's Al Fox gave the song a positive review, praising "Young Forever" and "Marilyn Monroe" for displaying the same "tender vulnerabilities" of Minaj's breakthrough anthem "Your Love", saying that it is "a necessary and successful respite in an album so boastful".
[12] Slant Magazine negatively compared "Marilyn Monroe" to the works of pop star Demi Lovato.