Originally written  April 15, 2006.

Along with “I’m A Slave For You”, “Boys” was one of the songs that redefined Britney’s image as a characteristically sexual one. Written, produced and with all instruments (whether real or virtual) played by The Neptunes, it’s not what you would call a substantial work, but it sure is a lot of fun. All the vocals are by Britney and take the form of the song itself plus a steady stream of whispered comments, asides, laughter and funny little “chickety chick” noises. It certainly shows Ms Spears at her most playful and frivolous and it’s hard to recall any other recent pop artist who ventures on to her territory.

Originally written August 19, 2005.

A while ago, my boyfriend put an album of Britney ballads together for me to play in the car. But nestling between “Dear Diary” and “I’m Not A girl” he snuck in a little surprise for me - “Anticipating”. “Why’d you do that, honey?” I politely enquired. “I wanted to put a smile on your face” was his reply. Knowing my continually stressed out demeanor, it wasn’t a bad idea. And it works! Just as I’m about to lose sight of the road ahead through crying over Britney’s naive visions of love, “Anticipating” actually makes me laugh out loud.