W.a.y.s.

Jhené Aiko's song 'W.a.y.s.' is a profound exploration of resilience and perseverance in the face of life's challenges. The song opens with a mystical encounter where an angel visits the singer at a symbolic time, 'forty-four minutes to four,' to impart wisdom. This angelic figure serves as a metaphor for inner guidance or a higher power, urging Aiko to keep moving forward despite the relentless spinning of the globe. The repetition of 'you gotta keep going' underscores the necessity of persistence and the inevitability of life's continuous motion.

The lyrics delve into the lessons learned through hardship, particularly during a period of confinement, possibly alluding to Aiko's personal experiences or broader struggles. She emphasizes that 'everything takes time' and highlights the importance of humility and mental fortitude. The lines 'you have gotta lose your pride, you have gotta lose your mind, just to find your peace of mind' suggest that true peace and understanding come from enduring and overcoming significant trials. Trusting the process and the signs along the way is crucial, as everything will eventually 'turn out fine.'

Aiko also touches on the philosophical aspects of existence, questioning the nature of reality and success. She sings about the absence of definitive beginnings and endings, and the illusion of winning and losing. This perspective encourages a more fluid and accepting approach to life, where the focus is on the journey rather than the destination. The song is a tribute to her brother and daughter, symbolizing the personal motivations that drive her to persist. The recurring question, 'Why aren't you smiling?' serves as a reminder to find joy and purpose even amidst chaos. Ultimately, 'W.a.y.s.' is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to endure and thrive, no matter the circumstances.