Once Upon a Time

SOJA's song 'Once Upon a Time' delves into the complexities of communication and the often painful misunderstandings that can arise in relationships. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a couple struggling to align their expectations and desires. The protagonist tries to convey a message of taking things slow, but his partner interprets it as a promise of forever. This miscommunication sets the stage for a series of emotional missteps, leading to a poignant moment where she leaves, but her words suggest she wishes he would stop her. This highlights the theme of unspoken desires and the difficulty of truly understanding one another in a relationship.

The song also explores the theme of nostalgia and the protagonist's inability to move on from the past. He admits to being 'still in love with yesterday,' indicating a deep-seated attachment to previous experiences or relationships. This longing for the past prevents him from fully engaging in the present, creating a barrier to forming a meaningful connection with his current partner. The repeated refrain of 'Call me, never let me go' underscores this yearning for a connection that feels both immediate and unattainable.

Culturally, the song taps into the timeless narrative of fairy tales, with references to a princess and a king. This metaphor serves to illustrate the idealized expectations that people often bring into relationships, only to be met with the harsh reality of human imperfection. SOJA's reggae-influenced sound adds a layer of emotional depth to the lyrics, blending a laid-back musical style with the weighty themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. The song ultimately serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of clear communication and the challenges of letting go of the past to embrace the present.