4 no Uta
BABYMETAL
The Quirky Charm of '4 no Uta' by BABYMETAL
BABYMETAL's '4 no Uta' is a playful and energetic song that revolves around the number four, or 'yon' in Japanese. The lyrics are a whimsical exploration of counting and the cultural significance of the number four in Japan. The repetition of 'yon' throughout the song creates a catchy and almost hypnotic rhythm, drawing listeners into its quirky charm.
In Japanese culture, the number four is often associated with bad luck because it sounds similar to the word for death ('shi'). However, BABYMETAL flips this superstition on its head by infusing the number with positive and humorous connotations. The lyrics mention 'shiawase no shi' (happiness's four), 'shinu ja nai shi' (not death's four), and 'yorokobi no yon' (joy's four), transforming what is typically seen as an unlucky number into something joyful and celebratory.
The song also plays with the sequence of numbers, emphasizing the position of four in the counting order. By doing so, it highlights the importance of perspective and how cultural beliefs can shape our understanding of something as simple as a number. The playful tone and energetic delivery are characteristic of BABYMETAL's unique style, which blends heavy metal with J-pop elements, creating a sound that is both intense and fun.
'4 no Uta' is a testament to BABYMETAL's ability to take unconventional themes and turn them into engaging and thought-provoking music. The song encourages listeners to question their preconceived notions and find joy in the unexpected, all while rocking out to an infectious beat.