Ça Fait Des Années (feat. Cheb Mami)

Soolking's song 'Ça Fait Des Années,' featuring Cheb Mami, is a poignant reflection on enduring hardships and the resilience required to navigate life's challenges. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and struggle, with repeated mentions of needing 'lovés' (money) but not 'love,' highlighting a focus on survival and material needs over emotional connections. This sentiment is further emphasized by the line 'Personne pour me sauver si je tombe dans la gueule du loup,' which translates to 'No one to save me if I fall into the wolf's mouth,' illustrating a feeling of isolation and vulnerability.

The chorus, sung by both Soolking and Cheb Mami, speaks to the passage of time and the fading of hope, as symbolized by the flowers that have withered over the years. The phrase 'Ça fait des années, des années qu'ils nous ont condamnés' ('It's been years, years that they have condemned us') suggests a prolonged period of suffering and oppression. The use of 'ana megwani,' which means 'I am tired' in Arabic, reinforces the exhaustion and weariness felt by the artists. This repetition underscores the ongoing nature of their struggles and the sense of being trapped in a cycle of hardship.

Cheb Mami's verse adds another layer to the narrative, delving into personal sacrifices and the impact of these struggles on one's youth and dreams. The lyrics 'Choufi denya daret 3liya' ('Look at what life has done to me') and 'Men sbabek rahet denya' ('Because of you, the world is gone') reflect a deep sense of loss and disillusionment. The collaboration between Soolking and Cheb Mami bridges generational and cultural gaps, uniting their voices in a shared expression of resilience and the hope for a better future despite the adversities they face.

The song's powerful message is further amplified by its musical style, blending modern rap with traditional North African sounds, creating a rich tapestry that resonates with listeners from diverse backgrounds. 'Ça Fait Des Années' is not just a song but a testament to the enduring human spirit and the relentless pursuit of hope and justice in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.