 Yahoo! Music writer Billy Johnson, Jr. found a "vibrant dance energy" in the song's music and further hailed its message as "uplifting". Similarly, Complex writer Zach Frydenlund echoed his statements, describing the song as "uplifting". In a review for Fuse, Jeff Benjamin described "Say Yes" as a "gospel-island hybrid". He felt that it was interesting to hear Williams as the lead vocalist instead of Beyoncé, who had previously served as the lead vocalist of Destiny's Child. Benhamin finished his review, concluding, "It all sort of makes us want to twerk and throw our hands to heavens at the same time." Brownie Marie of Christian Today praised Williams'vocal performance during the song's hook, along with the "well-controlled riffs". She also wrote that Beyoncé is "vocally subdued on the track, and truly lets Williams'voice receive the attention". Hayen Manders from Refinery29 felt that the song was Williams' "turn to shine". In a more mixed review, Vulture columnist Lindsey Weber wrote that the song is not "a total mess" and that listeners might sing the praises in the song along with it. At the 2014 Soul Train Music Awards, "Say Yes" is currently nominated in the category for Best Gospel / Inspirational Song.
