Reviews of the TikTok phenomenon highlight a "masterclass in fusing emotion with musical storytelling". The song’s massive success—amassing over 600 million TikTok views by October 2022—is attributed to Smith's "genius marketing strategy" of teasing snippets long before the official release.
: While the TikTok snippets were widely adored for their "raw" energy, some critics felt the full song didn't live up to the intense hype, describing the additional verses as a "lukewarm" follow-up to the viral chorus. Listener Perspectives
Community feedback ranges from high praise for the song’s catchiness to sharp criticism of its lyrical themes. “I love it.. Unholy is the best song of 2022.” TikTok · cbcgem · 3 years ago Reviews of the TikTok phenomenon highlight a "masterclass
“I think the problem was the long wait, by the time it was released everyone was fed up w/it thus more criticism towards the song instead of excitement.” TikTok · jarred jermaine · 3 years ago Notable Landmarks & Performers
: Critics describe the track as a radical departure for Smith, moving away from soulful ballads into a "villain era" marked by "grinding" basslines, Middle Eastern chord progressions, and an eerie cathedral-like choir effect. “The cell phone audio makes it feel like
“The cell phone audio makes it feel like you're outside a weird club, listening in. Released version is too clean.” TikTok · jarred jermaine · 3 years ago
“This is one of those songs that makes your skin crawl as you listen to the celebratory tone used to praise a man for lying to his wife.” Plugged In Middle Eastern chord progressions
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