Seven Seconds (feat. Youssou N'dour)

The song 'Seven Seconds' by Dido featuring Youssou N'dour is a powerful call for unity and understanding across racial and cultural divides. The lyrics begin with Youssou N'dour singing in Wolof, a language spoken in Senegal, which sets the tone for a song that transcends language barriers and speaks to a universal human experience. The song's chorus, 'It's not a second / Seven seconds away / Just as long as I stay / I'll be waiting,' suggests a sense of anticipation and the willingness to wait for change, emphasizing the importance of patience and persistence in the face of social challenges.

The song touches on the innocence of a newborn child, who enters the world without preconceived notions of race or identity, highlighting the idea that prejudice and discrimination are learned behaviors. This is a poignant reminder that at our core, humans are not born with hate; it is something that is taught and can, therefore, be unlearned. The repeated lines 'And when a child is born into this world / It has no concept / The tone the skin is living in' reinforce this message of inherent innocence and the potential for harmony.

Dido and Youssou N'dour use their platform to advocate for a world where differences are not just tolerated but celebrated. The song's plea for open doors and open hearts is a timeless message that resonates with listeners who dream of a more inclusive and compassionate society. The blend of languages and the fusion of musical styles in 'Seven Seconds' itself serves as a metaphor for the blending of cultures and the beauty that can arise when we embrace diversity.