Plus Rien Ne M'étonne

Tiken Jah Fakoly's 'Plus Rien Ne M'étonne' is a powerful song that delves into the themes of political cynicism, neocolonialism, and the arbitrary division of territories without regard for the people affected. The song's title, which translates to 'Nothing Surprises Me Anymore,' sets a tone of disillusionment and resignation to the ways of the world, particularly in the context of global politics and exploitation.

The lyrics describe a series of quid pro quo exchanges between powerful entities, trading territories and resources like pieces on a chessboard. The mention of specific regions such as Tchétchénie (Chechnya), Arménie (Armenia), and Afghanistan, among others, highlights the real-world geopolitical bargaining that often disregards the sovereignty and welfare of the local populations. The song criticizes the way powerful countries and corporations negotiate for control over resources, leaving chaos and conflict in their wake.

Fakoly, a reggae singer from Côte d'Ivoire, is known for his politically charged music that addresses social and political issues in Africa and beyond. The latter part of the song focuses on the partition of Africa, a historical event where colonial powers divided the continent without considering the cultural and ethnic boundaries, leading to long-term discord and strife. The artist's message is clear: the legacy of colonialism and the ongoing manipulation by powerful nations continue to impact the lives of many, and the lack of surprise in his voice underscores a weary awareness of these repeating patterns of exploitation.