The "Sped Up" version of Sam Smith and Kim Petras' "Unholy" is a high-energy remix that amplifies the original track’s nocturnal, hedonistic appeal. While the standard version is already a departure for Smith into dark electropop and metallic hyperpop, the sped-up rendition leans further into the "TikTok-core" aesthetic, making the grinding bass and choir chants feel more urgent and frantic. Musical Style & Production
: It incorporates Gregorian-style choir vocals and an "oh-wee-oh" chant that some reviewers have noted as a nod to the winged monkeys in The Wizard of Oz .
: By increasing the BPM, the track transforms from a sultry cabaret-style stomp into a chaotic, club-ready anthem that became a viral sensation before its official release. Lyrical Analysis The lyrics tell a literal story of infidelity and adultery. Sam Smith - Unholy Sped Up (Lyrics) ft. Kim Petras
“it just feels like it's had the legs cut out of it by Sam's eternally unerotic voice... and of course by the constraints of Tik Tok pop.” YouTube · Todd in the Shadows · 3 years ago
“His new single, “unholy” is a radical departure... featuring a track with Arabic undertones that focuses on a husband and his unrepentant promiscuity against his wife.” Plugged In · 3 years ago The "Sped Up" version of Sam Smith and
: Petras delivers a braggadocio verse as the "other woman," demanding luxury brands like Fendi, Prada, and Balenciaga in exchange for her attention.
Watch these reviews and musical breakdowns to see how the song's dark production and viral success were analyzed: : By increasing the BPM, the track transforms
: The production is heavily influenced by the late Sophie and PC Music, using metallic synths and sharp percussion that contrast with Smith's typically soulful ballads.