7 Seconds

Neneh Cherry's song '7 Seconds' is a poignant exploration of racial harmony and the innocence of childhood. The lyrics, a blend of English, French, and Wolof, reflect a global perspective on the issues of race and unity. The song opens with Wolof lyrics, which set a tone of cultural richness and diversity. This multilingual approach underscores the universal nature of the song's message, emphasizing that the struggle for unity transcends linguistic and cultural barriers.

The recurring theme in '7 Seconds' is the innocence of a newborn child, who enters the world without any preconceived notions about race or skin color. This innocence is contrasted with the harsh realities of a world where racial prejudices and divisions are prevalent. The line 'And when a child is born into this world, it has no concept of the tone the skin is living in' highlights the purity of a child's perspective, untainted by societal biases. The song suggests that this innocence is fleeting, as the world quickly imposes its prejudices on the child.

The metaphor of '7 seconds' represents a brief moment of clarity and hope, a window of opportunity to change and embrace unity. Cherry's lyrics call for a conscious effort to overcome racial prejudices and to open doors for dialogue and understanding. The song's hopeful tone is reinforced by the repeated refrain 'I'll be waiting,' signifying a steadfast commitment to this cause. By blending different languages and musical styles, '7 Seconds' not only addresses the issue of racial harmony but also embodies it, making it a powerful anthem for unity and change.