Motive (song)

The two wrote the song with Victoria Monét, Nija Charles, Jeremy McIntyre, Steven Franks and its producers Murda Beatz and Tommy Brown.

She also expressed her appreciation for her talent and "what she brings to the table musically", adding: "I was able to work with her earlier this year on this song that I want to save for whenever it's time again, to drop.

[5] It marks the first collaboration between Grande and Doja Cat, and the first time either artists had worked with Canadian hip hop producer Murda Beatz.

[6] It samples a muffled disco bounce, while Doja Cat's verse is layered over Southern California hip hop beats.

[15] David Smyth of the Evening Standard praised Grande's voice, and pointed out "how lightly [her] vocals float" when contrasted against Doja Cat's rap verse.

[16] Erica Gonzales of Harper's Bazaar described the song as "catchy as hell", writing: "The track is also perfectly upbeat and apropos for our virtual dance floors (a.k.a.

"[17] Alexa Camp of Slant Magazine considered the song "a welcome change of pace", given the scarcity of uptempo tracks on Grande's previous album, Thank U, Next.

[9] Shaad D'Souza of The Fader deemed the track "the album's most dynamic moment", which he believed boasts the most significant tempo change and the strongest hook besides lead single "Positions".

[19] Bobby Olivier of Spin felt the song was a "well-sung throwaway that contribute nothing to [Grande's] catalog",[20] while Adam White of The Independent called it a disappointment.