Sleazy (song)

"Sleazy"
Promotional single by Kesha
from the EP Cannibal
A-side"We R Who We R"
ReleasedOctober 29, 2010 (2010-10-29)
StudioConway Recording Studios (Los Angeles, CA)
Genre
Length3:25
LabelRCA
Songwriter(s)
Producer(s)
  • Bangladesh
  • Dr. Luke
  • Benny Blanco
Alternative cover
Second Remix version artwork

"Sleazy" is a song by American recording artist and songwriter Kesha, taken from her first extended play (EP), Cannibal (2010). The song was written by Kesha alongside Lukasz "Dr. Luke" Gottwald, Benjamin Levin, Shondrae "Bangladesh" Crawford, and Klas Åhlund, with production done by Bangladesh, Dr. Luke and Levin. While working on the album she enlisted the help of producer Bangladesh so that she could give her music a more distinct edge. Kesha uses a "sing-rap" vocal style throughout the song and uses layered vocals that are enhanced in some parts with the use of auto-tune. Lyrically the song speaks of wealthy men hitting on Kesha, trying to buy her attention.

The song was covered by Ben Folds and Ben Folds Five as part of the 2011 compilation album The Best Imitation of Myself: A Retrospective. The song was later re-released featuring rapper André 3000. The collaboration came about after Kesha sent him a copy of the track in hopes that he would like it; they later spoke on the phone and André agreed to appear on the track. André's verse speaks about a young child dealing with his deadbeat father and also his friendship with Kesha.

Critical reception of the song was generally positive with critics citing the song as a strong club number that is influenced by the songs of M.I.A., Jennifer Lopez, Gwen Stefani and Lil Wayne. "Sleazy" charted on both the Canadian Hot 100 and the United States Billboard Hot 100, peaking at 46 and 51, respectively.