It garnered a mixed response from critics; many praised its powerful balladry, but some criticized the lyrics.

Critically though, the song did not receive immediate success, with critics calling it "predictable" and criticizing the lyrics.

Matt Thompson of Radar also criticised the lyrics, but concluded that the album wasn't bad.

Some reviewers gave negative reviews towards the loud sound on the album and criticized the lyrics.

Rumba called the album "a stylish debut" but criticised the lyrics.

Critics also praised it as a single, however some criticized the cliched lyrics.

Her review criticized the lyrics for lacking details that were specific to a rural lifestyle.

Critical response to "S&M" was mixed: some critics praised its sound while others criticized the overtly sexual lyrics.

He criticised the lyrics and arrangements, as well as the track placement.

The Times criticized the lyrics and dialogue, commenting that "numerous jokes fall flat.