Paper Planes

I fly like paper, get high like planes If you catch me at the border I got visas in my name If you come around here, I make 'em all day I get one done in a second if you wait I fly like paper, get high like planes If you catch me at the border I got visas in my name If you come around here, I make 'em all day I get one done in a second if you wait Sometimes I think sitting on trains Every stop I get to I'm clocking that game Everyone's a winner, we're making our fame Bona fide hustler making my name Sometimes I think sitting on trains Every stop I get to I'm clocking that game Everyone's a winner, we're making our fame Bona fide hustler making my name All I wanna do is And a And take your money All I wanna do is And a And take your money All I wanna do is And a And take your money All I wanna do is And a And take your money Pirate skulls and bones Sticks and stones and weed and bongs Running when we hit 'em Lethal poison for the system Pirate skulls and bones Sticks and stones and weed and bombs Running when we hit 'em Lethal poison for the system No one on the corner has swagger like us Hit me on my burner prepaid wireless We pack and deliver like UPS trucks Already going hell just pumping that gas No one on the corner has swagger like us Hit me on my burner prepaid wireless We pack and deliver like UPS trucks Already going hell just pumping that gas All I wanna do is And a And take your money All I wanna do is And a And take your money All I wanna do is And a And take your money All I wanna do is And a And take your money M.I.A. Third world democracy Yeah, I got more records than the K.G.B. So, uh, no funny business Are you ready all? Some some some I some I murder Some I some I let go Some some some I some I murder Some I some I let go All I wanna do is And a And take your money All I wanna do is And a And take your money All I wanna do is And a And take your money All I wanna do is And a And take your money

Composer: Paul Simonon, Topper Headon, Mick Jones, Joe Strummer, Mathangi Arulpragasam, Thomas Wesley Pentz

In-depth Analysis of 'Paper Planes' by LyricLens AI

M.I.A.'s 'Paper Planes', released in 2007, is a groundbreaking track renowned for its distinctive beat and provocative lyrics. It masterfully blends hip-hop, electronic, and global music elements, serving as a powerful commentary on contemporary issues.

Central Themes Explored:

Immigration and Borders: The opening lines, "I fly like paper, get high like planes / If you catch me at the border I got visas in my name," playfully yet pointedly address the challenges and perceptions surrounding global movement and border control, hinting at an almost effortless navigation of restrictive systems.
Hustle and Survival: The repeated phrase "Bona fide hustler making my name" coupled with the iconic chorus "All I wanna do is... and take your money" can be seen as a defiant embrace of entrepreneurial spirit. It reflects the often-marginalized communities who must resort to ingenuity and 'hustle' to survive and succeed in a globalized economy.
Anti-Establishment and Rebellion: Imagery like "Pirate skulls and bones" and lines such as "Lethal poison for the system" suggest a strong anti-authoritarian stance. The song critiques established norms and power structures, celebrating those who operate outside conventional boundaries and challenge the status quo.

Emotions and Atmosphere:

The song exudes a potent mix of confidence, defiance, and playful aggression. There's an underlying urgency conveyed through its repetitive structure and propulsive beat, creating an atmosphere of bold self-assertion and resilience against systemic pressures.

'Paper Planes' ultimately stands as a powerful anthem of the outsider, a bold statement on global mobility, and a sharp critique of control, all wrapped in an irresistibly catchy and genre-defying package.

Q&A & Fun Facts: 'Paper Planes' by M.I.A.

What is M.I.A.'s 'Paper Planes' about?

'Paper Planes' is a satirical and defiant commentary on immigration, borders, and the perceptions of individuals from the Global South. It critiques Western stereotypes and global power dynamics, using irony and a playful tone to discuss serious themes of survival and anti-establishment views.

What's the meaning of "I fly like paper, get high like planes"?

This iconic line, especially when followed by "If you catch me at the border I got visas in my name," is a metaphorical boast. It implies an ability to effortlessly bypass or navigate border controls, subverting the idea that individuals from certain regions are inherently restricted or illegal. It suggests a form of freedom or cunning in movement.

Is the chorus "All I wanna do is... and take your money" literal?

No, the chorus is largely satirical and ironic. M.I.A. uses this seemingly aggressive demand to parody the Western fear and prejudiced perception of outsiders or immigrants as solely seeking to exploit or steal. It's a clever way to highlight the absurdity of such stereotypes while also hinting at economic motivations for migration.

What do "Pirate skulls and bones" signify in the song?

The imagery of "Pirate skulls and bones," along with "Sticks and stones and weed and bombs," reinforces the song's rebellious and anti-establishment themes. It evokes a sense of operating outside the law or conventional systems, challenging authority, and possibly alluding to guerrilla warfare or resistance against oppressive forces.

Fun Facts about 'Paper Planes':

The distinctive gunshot and cash register sounds sampled throughout the track are from The Clash's 1982 song 'Straight to Hell'.
'Paper Planes' was a massive commercial success, reaching the top 20 in numerous countries and receiving a Grammy nomination for Record of the Year in 2009.
The song gained widespread popularity after being featured prominently in the trailers and soundtrack for the 2008 film 'Pineapple Express'.