Format Digital download Label Matador Producer(s) Kurt Vile
Rob Schnapf | Length 4:58 Writer(s) Kurt Vile | |
Released July 21, 2015 (2015-07-21) | ||
"Pretty Pimpin" is a song by American indie rock musician Kurt Vile. Written by Vile himself, the song was released as a single on July 21, 2015. The song received a positive reception from music critics.
Contents
"Pretty Pimpin" peaked at number 1 on the Billboard Adult Alternative Songs chart, becoming Vile's first chart-topper on a Billboard chart.
Content
The song is about a man who is going through an identity crisis. Every day he wakes up and looks at himself in the mirror, but feels as if he does not know the man who he is looking at. He is a stranger to himself, unsure of how he got there and what he wants out of life. Ultimately, he decides that even if he cannot make much sense out of his life, he can at least appreciate the stylish clothes worn by the stranger that is him, calling them "pretty pimpin."
Critical reception
"Pretty Pimpin" received favorable reviews from critics. Evan Minsker of Pitchfork awarded it Best New Track, and said that its overall aesthetic is entirely welcome. Kyle McGovern of Spin said that the song is the most engaging and jaunty-sounding single Vile has pushed to radio. Tom Hughes of The Guardian called it one of Vile's "loveliest songs yet, and a great summation of his ingenious-weirdo appeal". The song has also been highlighted as a standout track of its parent album by AllMusic and Consequence of Sound.
Music video
The music video was released on July 21 2015.