With Love To An Ex (feat. Moonchild Sanelly)
Gorillaz
Empowerment and Independence: A Love Letter to Self
Gorillaz's song "With Love To An Ex (feat. Moonchild Sanelly)" is a powerful anthem of self-empowerment and independence. The lyrics reflect a journey of self-discovery and resilience, particularly in the face of past relationships that may have been stifling or unsupportive. The opening lines, "Where I'm from they said I live on a cloud / Simply 'cause I just dream too much," set the tone for a narrative about breaking free from societal expectations and embracing one's dreams and aspirations, no matter how unconventional they may seem to others.
The recurring theme of ex-partners trying to reconnect, as highlighted in the lines "Ex-niggas blowing up my DM / Wanna meet for lunch, breakfast or a dinner," underscores the protagonist's newfound sense of self-worth and determination to move forward. The use of the phrase "Banesidina, asidiki, sesagqiba / Banehaba, andisoze ndabashiya" in Xhosa, which translates to "They are tired, they are bored, we are done / They are jealous, I will never leave them," further emphasizes the protagonist's resolve to leave the past behind and not be swayed by those who did not appreciate them.
Moonchild Sanelly's contribution adds a layer of assertiveness and confidence, particularly in the lines "Ndifun' ibars, ndifun' ipounds, ndifun' imali / Ndifun' ibux, ndifun' ibusy, ndifun' ifuni," which translate to a desire for financial independence and success. This part of the song highlights the importance of self-sufficiency and the pursuit of one's goals without relying on others. The repeated assertion that ex-partners are now interested in what the protagonist has achieved, "Ex be like, you dream too much, you're out too much / You are too much, I want to munch," serves as a reminder of the protagonist's growth and the value of staying true to oneself.
"With Love To An Ex" is a celebration of personal growth, self-love, and the strength to move on from past relationships that no longer serve one's best interests. It is a reminder that true empowerment comes from within and that one's worth is not defined by others' opinions or desires.