Away Away

Ibeyi's song 'Away Away' is a poignant exploration of resilience, time, and the human spirit's enduring strength. The lyrics open with a sense of urgency, as the repetition of 'Away away' and 'Time is running' suggests a race against time. Despite the artist's youth, there is an acute awareness of the fleeting nature of time, symbolized by the day falling through the window. This imagery evokes a sense of inevitability and the passage of time, raising questions about the fulfillment of promises and the unfolding of the future.

The chorus, 'I don’t give up, I don’t give up,' serves as a powerful mantra of perseverance. The acknowledgment of pain, coupled with the affirmation 'But I’m alive, I’m alive,' highlights the duality of human experience—suffering and vitality coexisting. This resilience is further emphasized in the lines questioning the need to race against fate, particularly a 'fate of flames,' which could symbolize challenges, struggles, or even a predestined path fraught with difficulties. The repetition of these lines underscores the internal conflict and contemplation of whether to fight against or accept one's fate.

The song also incorporates Yoruba language, with phrases like 'Aina wayeke' and 'Ogoroiña agayu chola aina Wayeke,' adding a layer of cultural depth and spiritual resonance. Ibeyi, known for blending Afro-Cuban sounds with contemporary influences, often infuses their music with elements of their heritage. This cultural infusion not only enriches the song's texture but also connects the personal struggle to a broader, ancestral narrative. 'Away Away' ultimately becomes a meditation on endurance, cultural identity, and the relentless passage of time, inviting listeners to reflect on their own journeys and the promises they hold dear.