"3 Boys" is a song by American singer-songwriter Omar Apollo. It was released on 16 February 2023 through Warner Records.[1]
It lyrically speaks of the protagonist accepting his partner's suggestion of a ménage à trois only to find out it will not work out, describing polyamory as resentments waiting to happen.[2] "3 Boys" was included on the soundtrack of the 2023 queer romantic comedy film Red, White & Royal Blue.[3]
Background
"3 Boys" was Apollo's first song of 2023 after releasing his debut studio album, Ivory, a year prior.[4]
A week before the song's release, Apollo posted a snippet of the song on his social media with the cover and the title.[5]
He explains, 'When I first started writing songs I would often write about unrequited love. "3 Boys" was my first time writing about something non-monogamous. I wrote the song on a rainy day in London...with a friend of mine, Dylan Wiggins. I also had my friend Mustafa help me with a few lines after I played it for him.'[6]
Critical reception
Jon Blistein of Rolling Stone wrote, 'the real draw is Apollo's vocals and his torn-up lyrics, Three boys would work if I wasn't so tethered to you.'[1]Uproxx simply described it as 'a smooth, hypnotic beat' while specifying the chorus.[2]BroadwayWorld stated, 'The simple, romantic melody is weaved with complex vocals that give every verse a different feel while staying true to his sound.'[6]Fault Magazine referred to the song as 'A reflection of the artist's growth and authenticity.'[7]
