J'y suis j'y reste

Zebda's song 'J'y suis j'y reste' is a powerful declaration of belonging and resistance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a city marked by social and cultural divides. The opening lines describe the city's small planes, likened to butterflies, which are accessible only to a privileged few. This imagery sets the stage for a critique of social inequality, highlighting how certain spaces and opportunities are reserved for the elite, while others are excluded. The mention of gardens where happiness ends at 6 PM further emphasizes the limitations imposed on the less privileged, who are not welcome in these spaces after hours.

The song also touches on themes of cultural diversity and solidarity. The reference to djembés and the blending of different cultural influences, such as Senegalese singing in Occitan, underscores the rich tapestry of multiculturalism in the city. Zebda celebrates this diversity, pointing out that people from various backgrounds, including those from Malta and Jerusalem, live together in the same neighborhoods. Despite their shared struggles and the pain of displacement, these communities find strength in their unity and resilience. The repeated refrain 'J'y suis j'y reste' (I'm here, I stay) serves as a defiant assertion of their right to belong and remain in the city, despite the challenges they face.

The song's narrative also delves into the personal experiences of those who feel marginalized. The lyrics describe the city's complaints and barriers, which create an 'enclosure' for those who do not fit the mold of the privileged. The mention of accents and lack of access highlights the discrimination faced by immigrants and people of different ethnic backgrounds. The song poignantly captures the frustration of always descending the same stairs and encountering the same obstacles, symbolizing the cyclical nature of their struggles. Yet, amidst this adversity, the singer's resolve to stay and claim their place in the city is unwavering. 'J'y suis j'y reste' becomes a rallying cry for all those who refuse to be erased or forgotten, asserting their presence and right to exist in the face of exclusion.