Unza Unza Time

Emir Kusturica & The No Smoking Orchestra's song "Unza Unza Time" is a vibrant and satirical commentary on the state of music and society at the turn of the millennium. The lyrics paint a picture of a world that has lost its soul, where the essence of rock 'n' roll has been replaced by superficiality and commercialism. The opening lines set the stage by describing a monotonous and lifeless time in 1999, where the boundaries between punishment and crime have blurred, hinting at a moral and cultural decline.

The song critiques the homogenization of music, where British pop and soul have become mere fashion statements, devoid of the raw energy and rebellion that once defined them. The phrase "video killed the rock'n'roll" echoes the famous Buggles' song, suggesting that the visual and commercial aspects of music have overshadowed its artistic and emotional core. The lyrics lament the transformation of humans into "cold machines," devoid of love and power, driven by mechanical routines rather than genuine passion.

However, the song is not just a lament but also a call to action. The repeated exhortations to "wake up" and the vivid imagery of lightning and thunder serve as a rallying cry for a return to the primal, energetic spirit of music. The phrase "Unza Unza Time" symbolizes a revival, a time to break free from the mundane and embrace the raw, unfiltered joy of music. The song's infectious rhythm and playful tone underscore its message, urging listeners to lift their shoulders, stamp their feet, and produce the "extra protein"—a metaphor for rekindling their inner vitality and spirit.