Sumach Ecks was born in San Diego to a Hispanic mother and an Ethiopian father. He has been musically active since the 1990s, when he rapped with Masters of the Universe and self-released some solo albums under the name Sumach. In 2008 he made his first two notable appearances on record: rapping a verse on "Anything Is Possible" (on the album Johnson&Jonson by Blu and Mainframe) and singing on "Testament" (on the album Los Angeles by Flying Lotus). The latter garnered Ecks a great deal of attention, and led to him being signed to Warp Records and releasing A Sufi and a Killer under the moniker "Gonjasufi" in 2010.
Since signing to Warp, Ecks has also released three more records: The Caliph's Tea Party in 2010, The 9th Inning EP in 2011 and MU.ZZ.LE in 2012.
Change
Gonjasufi Lyrics
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(Change)
Changing your hearts
With mine
When you steal
When you steal
When you steal
Dara da ra da
Chained to them dollar signs (change)
Such a high wall to climb
(Change)
Please save your bothered mind
Before your hearts too small To find
Some change
(Change)
No there is no change
Ey change
In the opening lines of the song "Change" by Gonjasufi, the repetition of the word "Change" sets a meditative and contemplative tone. The notion of change is presented as a continuous process, as echoed in the repeated line "Changing your hearts with mine." This suggests a connection between individuals, emphasizing the fluidity of emotions and experiences that can lead to transformation. The repetition of "When you steal" followed by nonsensical syllables conveys a sense of urgency and perhaps a warning about the consequences of dishonest actions. These lines evoke a feeling of chaos and conflict, hinting at inner struggles and the need for personal growth and evolution.
The line "Chained to them dollar signs" introduces a theme of materialism and the constraints that money can place on individuals. The metaphor of being chained to financial symbols suggests a lack of freedom and the overwhelming influence of capitalism on society. The mention of a "high wall to climb" further emphasizes the obstacles and challenges that one may face in the pursuit of change. This imagery paints a picture of a world where societal pressures and economic disparities can hinder personal development and hinder the search for inner peace.
The plea to "Please save your bothered mind" reflects a sense of compassion and empathy towards others who may be struggling with their thoughts and emotions. The lyric warns against letting one's heart shrink and become too confined, suggesting the importance of remaining open-minded and receptive to change. The repeated call for "Some change" creates a sense of longing for transformation and improvement, both on an individual and collective level. It serves as a reminder of the need for growth and progress in order to break free from destructive patterns and stagnant routines.
The concluding lines, "No there is no change, Ey change," leave the listener with a sense of uncertainty and contradiction. The affirmation that "No there is no change" challenges the earlier assertions about the possibility of transformation and evolution. This paradoxical statement may suggest a sense of resignation or acceptance of the status quo, contrasting with the earlier calls for change. The final utterance of "Ey change" introduces a sense of urgency and insistence, urging the listener to reflect on the complexities of change and the potential for personal and social transformation. Overall, the lyrics of "Change" by Gonjasufi invite contemplation on the nature of change, the obstacles that may hinder its realization, and the importance of remaining open to growth and evolution.
Line by Line Meaning
Changing your hearts
Altering the emotions and feelings within you
With mine
Incorporating my emotions into yours
When you steal
When you take something unlawfully
Dara da ra da
A rhythmic vocalization
Chained to them dollar signs (change)
Feeling bound by materialism and money
Such a high wall to climb
A very difficult challenge to overcome
Please save your bothered mind
Take care of your troubled thoughts
Before your hearts too small to find
Before your capacity for love diminishes
Some change
A desire for transformation or difference
No there is no change
There is no alteration or difference
Ey change
A call for transformation or change
Writer(s): Faheem Najm, Wayne Kirkpatrick, Mary J. Blige, Gordon Kennedy, Tommy Sims, Akon Thiam, Rocco Valdes
Contributed by Layla O. Suggest a correction in the comments below.