Check out some excerpts from the interview below, and view the photos from the shoot in the gallery above.
GQ: This year's been great for you. Your new album, Ciara, was a hit and "Body Party" went Gold—it's one of my favorite tracks this year.
CIARA: It's one of those songs that happened fast, because it has such a sweet vibe. I can't even lie, when we were mixing it, I was listening to it over and over like a fan. I don't like using obvious samples, but it felt right—I couldn't ignore the track the way [producer] Mike Will flipped the sample of "My boo." It's one of those songs a girl can sing to her man and where guys don't have to feel too cool to slow dance with your girl.
GQ: And you've just released your new single, "Overdose."
CIARA: The song's got a throwback '80s vibe with a modern twist; I think that's unexpected. It's more a product of my experimentation—it has a vintage-y feel, but I feel like everyone can love it. And what's better than to dance to the feeling of love? The song's about embodying that energy.
GQ: Speaking of dancing, you're one of the best. How would you advise the GQ guy?
CIARA: Go with the flow; don't overthink it. If you're a head-nod kind of guy, nod your head. If you're a guy who likes to coast out and rock or sway, just do that. Whatever you do, don't get out there and try do something you haven't practiced. Do what shows your style and vibe—let me catch that without you trying to show me anything. I'm kind of okay to just chill. Keep it simple and let the girl guide you a little bit. If you can do that, I think you'll be all right.
