Un-thinkable (I'm Ready) (feat. Drake) - Remix

Un-thinkable (I'm Ready) explores the delicate and terrifying transition from friendship or acquaintance to romantic intimacy. The central theme revolves around the hesitation one feels when considering a relationship that might be deemed socially unacceptable, risky, or 'unthinkable' by others (or even by the protagonists themselves). In the context of the Remix, the addition of Drake adds a crucial conversational element, transforming the song from a soliloquy into a dialogue between two people experiencing the same magnetic pull.

Drake's opening verse highlights the confusion of modern dating—mixed signals, late nights, and the blurry lines between platonic hanging out and romantic involvement. He provides the masculine perspective of waiting for the woman to let her guard down. Alicia Keys' sections delve into the internal struggle of overcoming fear. The lyrics "Moment of silence, is it over?" suggest a paused interaction where both parties are afraid to make the first move.

The chorus serves as the resolution to this internal conflict. The realization that the feeling is unique ("never felt before") becomes the catalyst for action. The song ultimately argues that love requires bravery; one must be willing to face judgment and the unknown to experience true connection. The "un-thinkable" is not just the relationship itself, but the act of breaking through the barriers that keep them apart.

The narrative of the remix begins with a perspective introduced by the male counterpart, establishing a scene of late-night intimacy clouded by hesitation and ambiguity. He addresses a partner who claims she isn't interested or 'with it,' yet her actions—spending the night, consuming drinks, and engaging in deep conversation—suggest a profound connection that defies her verbal denials. He expresses a sense of confusion and longing, questioning the mixed signals and the boundaries that seem to exist only in daylight. He reflects on the complexity of their bond, suggesting that their connection is deeper than a casual encounter, acknowledging the external pressures or 'noise' that complicates their potential union. He admits to his own vulnerability, hinting that while he plays it cool, he is deeply affected by the push-and-pull dynamic of their interaction.

As the perspective shifts to the female lead, the internal monologue deepens. She speaks to the moments of silence that hang between them, a silence that isn't empty but heavy with unspoken emotion and intent. She questions whether this silence marks the end of their potential or the very beginning of something substantial. There is a palpable sense of anxiety about crossing a line, a fear that acting on these feelings might be a mistake, yet the magnetism is undeniable. She wonders if he is engaged in the same mental calculus, weighing the pros and cons of taking their relationship from platonic or undefined to romantic.

The emotional core of the narrative explodes in the realization that the feelings she is experiencing are unprecedented. She confesses that he elicits a sensation she has never felt before, a transformative emotional state that makes the risks seem worth taking. This leads to the central declaration: the act of being together, once considered 'un-thinkable' or impossible due to circumstances, social judgment, or personal fear, is now the only logical path. She declares herself 'ready,' signaling a surrender to the emotion. She challenges the societal gaze, asking who has the right to judge their connection. The narrative resolves into a determination to seize the moment, urging that if they don't act now, they may never know what could have been. It is a story of moving from fearful hesitation to courageous acceptance of love, deciding that the potential for happiness outweighs the fear of the unknown.

The original version of "Un-thinkable (I'm Ready)" was released on Alicia Keys' fourth studio album, The Element of Freedom, in December 2009. The song was co-written by Alicia Keys, Aubrey Graham (Drake), Kerry Brothers Jr., and Noah "40" Shebib. Notably, the track was produced by Noah "40" Shebib, who is Drake's longtime collaborator and the architect of his signature atmospheric sound.

Because Drake was already a co-writer on the original track and contributed background vocals, a remix featuring a full verse from him was a natural progression. The remix was released digitally on May 28, 2010. In interviews, Keys mentioned that she and Drake had an immediate creative chemistry, describing the collaboration as effortless. The production features the signature "underwater" lo-fi sound that 40 is famous for, utilizing a sample from the band The xx (specifically the guitar melody from their intro), which gives the song its haunting, spacious quality.

While the music video for the original song famously depicted an interracial romance across different eras (inspired by the case of Loving v. Virginia), the remix focuses more strictly on the lyrical interplay and the sonic chemistry between the two R&B titans.

Rhythm and Tempo: The song is set in a slow, 4/4 time signature with a laid-back, swung feel. The tempo is approximately 86 BPM. The rhythm of the vocal melody is syncopated, often dragging slightly behind the beat, which enhances the languid, sensual mood of the track.

Rhyme Scheme: Drake's verse utilizes complex multi-syllabic rhyming patterns typical of hip-hop (e.g., matching "talking to" with "walking through"). He often employs slant rhymes (imperfect rhymes) to maintain a conversational flow. Alicia Keys' verses follow a more traditional AABB or ABAB pop structure, but her phrasing is fluid. The chorus relies heavily on the repetition of the word "ready," creating a rhythmic hook that anchors the song.

Musical Production (The "40" Sound): The track is a quintessential example of the Toronto sound pioneered by Noah "40" Shebib. It utilizes a low-pass filter on the instrumentation, making the music sound submerged or distant, which creates an intimate, claustrophobic atmosphere perfect for a song about secret feelings. The drum pattern is sparse, relying on a soft snare and kick to leave room for the vocals.

Vocal Delivery: Alicia Keys utilizes a breathy, lower-register delivery that differs from her usual powerful belting. This stylistic choice enhances the feeling of a whispered confession. Drake employs his signature melodic flow—half-rapping, half-singing—which bridges the gap between Hip-Hop and R&B.

Rhetorical Questions: The lyrics are filled with questions ("Is it over?", "Who are they to judge us?", "What we doin'?"). This literary technique emphasizes the uncertainty and the search for validation that defines the early stages of a relationship.

"Un-thinkable (I'm Ready)" was a major commercial success, topping the US Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart for 12 consecutive weeks. It became one of the defining R&B songs of 2010. The remix featuring Drake is often considered the definitive version by fans of contemporary R&B because it unites two of the genre's biggest stars at the peak of their collaborative era.

The song marked a stylistic shift for Alicia Keys, moving her away from the retro-soul of her earlier work toward the more atmospheric, electronic-infused PBR&B sound that would dominate the 2010s. It has been sampled by various artists, including H.E.R. and Tory Lanez, proving its lasting impact on the genre's soundscape. The song is frequently cited as one of the best slow jams of the 21st century.

The lyrics employ subtle yet effective imagery to convey emotional states:

• The Moment of Silence: This functions as a metaphor for the threshold of decision. It represents the precipice between remaining as they are and taking the leap into a relationship. It is the "calm before the storm" of falling in love.
• The "Un-thinkable": This serves as a hyperbolic label for their love. It suggests that their union acts against logic, social norms, or prior expectations. It transforms a romantic choice into an act of rebellion.
• Visualizing the Future: Keys sings about seeing the other person in her life "forever." This contrasts with the temporary nature of the "moment of silence," symbolizing a desire for permanence amidst uncertainty.
• Alcohol/Drinks (Drake's Verse): In the remix, the mention of drinking acts as a symbol for lowering inhibitions—a 'liquid courage' necessary to bridge the gap that sobriety and fear keep in place.

"I'm Ready": This phrase is the central motif and hook of the song. Its repetition transforms it from a tentative statement into a mantra of conviction. As the song progresses, the delivery of "I'm ready" becomes more assertive.

"You give me a feeling...": This refrain acts as the justification for the "un-thinkable" actions. It is the emotional evidence presented to the listener (and the partner) for why the risk must be taken.

"Baby": Used frequently as a term of endearment, it grounds the abstract concept of love in a personal, intimate reality.