The band began as a ska group but quickly transcended the genre, mixing punk, reggae, rock, swing and jazz influences. They sing in both French and English, sometimes mixing the two in songs. Their third album, Dances of Resistance, was recorded in 2003 and largely has an anti-war theme. In 2009 they launched their latest album La Belle Étoile. Since then they are still on tour all over the world, from their own country France to other countries in Europe, but also to foreign places like Abu Dhabi and New Zealand.
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Not So Funny
Babylon Circus Lyrics
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The song "Not So Funny" by Babylon Circus features the character of Mr. Clown who is crying because he realizes that life is not full of laughter and fun. He is frustrated because he finds it difficult to express himself and make people understand his thoughts and ideas. However, he refuses to give up and continues to fight the "musical war" to make people aware of what he is looking for. The lyrics also remind listeners that life is short and that one day we will all die, so it is important to make the most of our time and find the right direction in life, to not make too many mistakes along the way.
The song also touches upon the social and economic inequalities prevalent in society. It talks about the poor robbing the poor while the rich keep getting richer, and questions who really holds the power in society. The song urges people to come together to face and overcome these struggles, and not lose sight of what's important.
Overall, "Not So Funny" is a powerful and insightful song that forces us to think about the bigger picture of life and the society we live in. It calls for unity and action, and encourages us to not give up on our dreams and ideals despite the challenges we face.
Line by Line Meaning
Mr. Clown is crying
The singer symbolizes the sadness and despair of people who find it difficult to express themselves and make others understand. Mr. Clown represents such people in this song who are crying.
He's weeping and a-wailing
Mr. Clown is crying loudly and uncontrollably.
Mr. Clown is crying 'Cause the things aren't so funny
Mr. Clown is feeling sad because life's circumstances are not always as joyful and funny as they seem.
So hard to express yourself today
It is difficult to convey one's thoughts and feelings to others in today's world where there is so much noise and chaos.
So hard to make them understand what you say
Even if someone tries to express themselves, it is a challenge to make others understand their point of view.
But I'll never stop fighting this musical war
The singer is determined to keep using music as a tool to express themselves, even if it is not always easy.
'Cause I want dem to know what I man lookin' for
The singer wants others to know what they are searching for in life and what inspires them.
Don't you know that life is not so long
The artist is reminding people that life is not infinite and that one should live each day with purpose and intention.
That one day ya gonna lie down in a box
Death is inevitable and everyone will eventually die, so it is important to make the most of life while one is alive.
So better check your own direction
It is beneficial to reflect on one's life and ensure that they are on the right path and moving towards their goals.
And don't ya don't ya make too much mistakes
It is important to make mistakes and learn from them, but one should not repeat the same mistakes over and over again.
Mr. Clown ain't got no reason to laugh
The artist is emphasizing that some people may not have any reason to be happy and may be struggling with various challenges in life.
He's smoking But ganja's not enough
Mr. Clown is trying to find solace in smoking marijuana, but it is not enough to numb his pain or bring him joy.
Mr. Clown is tryin' to get some fun
Mr. Clown is attempting to have some fun or find happiness in his life.
He's drinking But this is not the solution
Mr. Clown is trying to find happiness or numb his pain by drinking alcohol, but the singer is emphasizing that this is not a long-term solution.
Tell dem, tell dem, tell dem what you know
The artist is urging people to share their knowledge, ideas, and experiences with others through their music or any other means of communication.
Tell dem, tell dem, tell dem what you saw...
The artist is encouraging people to share their unique perspectives on life and the world around them.
The poor robbin' the poor
The singer is highlighting the vicious cycle of poverty where the poor are forced to steal or cheat from each other to survive.
And the richman gettin' richer
The wealthy continue to become wealthier while the poor struggle to make ends meet.
Pressure drop, pressure drop, higher and higher, Poor killing the poor
The pressure to survive becomes greater for the poor, leading to increased violence and desperation where the poor may resort to taking each other's lives.
And who's gettin' di power? Pressure drop, pressure drop, higher and higher Pressure drop...
The powerful and wealthy continue to gain more control and influence while the poor are left to struggle and suffer in desperation.
People get together, For the best and the worst
The artist is emphasizing the importance of unity and coming together as people to support each other through good times and bad.
We'll overcome dis struggle, And never get it lost
The singer is hopeful that people can overcome the struggles they face and learn from their experiences so that they can continue to grow and evolve.
Don't ya don't ya make too much mistakes...
The artist is reiterating the importance of learning from one's mistakes and striving to avoid repeating them in the future.
Contributed by Lillian O. Suggest a correction in the comments below.