Premier Gaou

Magic System's 'Premier Gaou' is a song that tells a story of personal growth, betrayal, and the ironies of success. The Ivorian group Magic System, known for their unique blend of traditional African sounds with modern music elements, delivers a narrative that is both relatable and culturally specific. The term 'gaou' in the song is an Ivorian slang term that roughly translates to 'fool' or 'simpleton.'

The lyrics recount the tale of a man who is abandoned by his girlfriend, Antou, during a period of hardship, referred to as 'ma galère.' She leaves him when he has no money, but once he gains fame and fortune through his music, she returns, claiming to have always belonged to him. The protagonist is aware of her opportunistic behavior and the song's chorus emphasizes the message that being fooled once is a learning experience ('premier gaou n'est pas gaou'), but being fooled a second time is foolishness ('c'est deuxième gaou qui est niata').

The song also humorously describes the protagonist's response to Antou's return. He offers her extravagant dishes, like 'caïman braisé' (braised caiman) and 'kedjenou d'éléphant' (elephant stew), which are clearly hyperbolic and signify his newfound wealth and status. The song ends with a celebration of his wisdom in not falling for her tricks again, and a roll call of names, possibly signifying solidarity with others who have been similarly deceived. 'Premier Gaou' is a cautionary tale about the importance of recognizing and learning from one's experiences, especially in the face of opportunism and insincerity.