how far
Gorillaz Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

Yeah, wah gwan brudda?
Time to hustle for the money, give a change to your mother
Change them sheets, you got stains on the cover
Better look sharp, now your face on the cover

Like a chameleon, see a change in your color
Crabs in the barrel wanna hate on each other
So my life gets better, whatever the weather
I dance in the rain and I bathe in summer
It's the black Corleone in the button-up shirt
Before we take off you better buckle up first
Fresher than the President
Psychedelics got me in my element
All negativity, that's irrelevant
Amber Leaf or ganja leaf, I back strap when I wrap the sheets
Now I feel to go for a drive so I grab my keys
Shades on, roof down, tryna catch a breeze
Ridin' 'round the hood, got the Devil in my ear
Can you smell that? Smells like jealousy in the air
Don't know who they're tryna scare
Looked at the man in the mirror
that's the only enemy that I fear
A zombie knows who to frighten
Just know I love the action but I move in silence
And, right now, I'm just takin' what's mine
'Til Elizabeth returns to diamonds

Yeah, wah gwan brudda?
Time to hustle for the money, give a change to your mother
Change them sheets, you got stains on the cover
Better look sharp, now your face on the cover

Tryna be the boss of life, gets tougher
I hope you're ready for the truth that you're gonna discover
Always gonna be a Judas at the Last Supper
Stay woke, it's a rocky road on the come-up
I take the shots like Scorsese
More money, more problems and more ladies
Everyday somebody die, still, mothers give birth to more babies
The Earth spins, the world gets more crazy
You gotta have a suit for the christening
A suit for the wedding and a suit for the court case
Probably wear the same suit to the funeral
Tryna see the bigger picture
man it's bigger than the portrait
Bigger than me, no, you can't fight of your demons with vitamin C
Have to open your mind, use your vision and see
Keep your eyes on the prize so vigilantly
Love how you live, remember the world, full of expensive shit
Can't forget the poor 'cause you're friends with the rich
Stay true to the mold, I ain't ever gonna switch

Yeah, yeah-yeah, Yeah, wah gwan brudda?
Time to hustle for the money, give a change to your mother
Change them sheets, you got stains on the cover
Better look sharp, now your face on the cover

Hm, who's that pressin' on the buzzer?
Better check the camera, you don't wanna get stuck up
You listen close, you can hear death around the corner
One wrong move and we're all gonna suffer

Ah, yes, ooh, yeah
And take it, and lose it, ooh, yeah
And take it, and lose it, ooh, yeah
And take it, and lose it, ooh, yeah
And take it, and lose it, and take it, ah

How far brudda?
Time to hustle for the money, give a change to your mother




Change them sheets, you got stains on the cover
Better look sharp, now your face on the cover

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of the song "How Far?" by Gorillaz, Tony Allen, and Skepta, are a commentary on the grind and hustle of everyday life. The song talks about the struggles of making it in this world and the cutthroat competition that people face. The lines "Time to hustle for the money, give a change to your mother" and "Change them sheets, you got stains on the cover" encapsulate the sense of urgency and the need to work hard in order to survive.


The song also talks about the importance of staying true to oneself and not getting swayed by external forces. The lines "Stay true to the mold, I ain't ever gonna switch" reinforces this idea. Furthermore, the lyrics are a reminder that life can be unpredictable and that we need to be vigilant at all times. The lines "Hm, who's that pressin' on the buzzer? Better check the camera, you don't wanna get stuck up" warn against complacency and urge people to stay alert and aware.


Overall, the song is a reflection on life's struggles and the need to stay focused and diligent. It's a call to remain true to one's self and to never forget where one comes from.


Line by Line Meaning

Yeah, wah gwan brudda?
Hey, what's up, brother?


Time to hustle for the money, give a change to your mother
It's time to work hard and provide for your family.


Change them sheets, you got stains on the cover
Keep your surroundings clean and presentable.


Better look sharp, now your face on the cover
Be on your best behavior because you never know who's watching.


Like a chameleon, see a change in your color
Be adaptable and willing to change when necessary.


Crabs in the barrel wanna hate on each other
Don't bring others down because of your own insecurities.


So my life gets better, whatever the weather
Stay positive and keep pushing through tough times.


I dance in the rain and I bathe in summer
Enjoy every moment in life, both good and bad.


It's the black Corleone in the button-up shirt
Referring to a powerful and stylish persona.


Before we take off you better buckle up first
Be prepared for anything that comes your way.


Fresher than the President
Feeling confident and fashionable.


Psychedelics got me in my element
Being in a good mood or mindset due to substance use.


All negativity, that's irrelevant
Ignoring negativity and focusing on positivity.


Amber Leaf or ganja leaf, I back strap when I wrap the sheets
Drug references regarding rolling tobacco or marijuana and keeping themselves safe while doing so.


Now I feel to go for a drive so I grab my keys
Feeling the need to escape and take a relaxing drive.


Shades on, roof down, tryna catch a breeze
Driving in style with the windows down and feeling the wind.


Ridin' 'round the hood, got the Devil in my ear
Being tempted to make negative or dangerous decisions.


Can you smell that? Smells like jealousy in the air
Feeling that there is negative energy and envy around them.


Don't know who they're tryna scare
Confused about why others are trying to intimidate them.


Looked at the man in the mirror
Reflecting on oneself and taking responsibility for their actions.


that's the only enemy that I fear
Acknowledging that the greatest challenges come from oneself.


A zombie knows who to frighten
Even negative or dangerous individuals know who to steer clear of.


Just know I love the action but I move in silence
Preferring to take action in a tactful, lowkey way.


And, right now, I'm just takin' what's mine
Working hard to achieve their goals and take what they deserve.


'Til Elizabeth returns to diamonds
Metaphorically referring to a difficult, long-term goal that may take a lot of work to achieve.


Tryna be the boss of life, gets tougher
Struggling to take control and manage their life and decisions.


I hope you're ready for the truth that you're gonna discover
Preparing oneself for difficult truths and lessons in life.


Always gonna be a Judas at the Last Supper
Referring to betrayal from people who were once trusted.


Stay woke, it's a rocky road on the come-up
Remaining aware of their surroundings and persevering through tough times.


I take the shots like Scorsese
Being willing to take chances and risks to achieve success.


More money, more problems and more ladies
Acknowledging that having success can come with its own challenges and temptations.


Everyday somebody die, still, mothers give birth to more babies
Noting the cycle of life and death, and the persistence of hope and new beginnings.


The Earth spins, the world gets more crazy
Life is always changing and becoming increasingly unpredictable.


You gotta have a suit for the christening
Referring to various social events and the need to dress appropriately for each one.


A suit for the wedding and a suit for the court case
Different events and occasions require different types of formal attire.


Probably wear the same suit to the funeral
Noting the cyclical nature of life and the need to be prepared for the inevitable.


Tryna see the bigger picture
Looking beyond the present moment and striving for a broader perspective.


man it's bigger than the portrait
Acknowledging the depth and complexity of life beyond surface-level appearances.


Bigger than me, no, you can't fight of your demons with vitamin C
Recognizing that one's own struggles and challenges are complex and can't be solved with simple solutions.


Have to open your mind, use your vision and see
Encouraging self-reflection and broadening one's own perspective in order to grow and overcome challenges.


Keep your eyes on the prize so vigilantly
Staying focused on one's goals and working hard to achieve them.


Love how you live, remember the world, full of expensive shit
Appreciating life's small moments and pleasures, despite the impending challenges.


Can't forget the poor 'cause you're friends with the rich
Remembering to care for and help those less fortunate, even if one's own social circle may be wealthy.


Stay true to the mold, I ain't ever gonna switch
Staying true to oneself and one's principles, even in the face of temptations or challenges.


Hm, who's that pressin' on the buzzer?
Questioning who may be at the door or attempting to contact them.


Better check the camera, you don't wanna get stuck up
Being cautious and taking measures to protect oneself from potential harm or danger.


You listen close, you can hear death around the corner
Feeling an ominous sense of danger or potential harm nearby.


One wrong move and we're all gonna suffer
Realizing that every decision has consequences, which can affect those around them.


Ah, yes, ooh, yeah
Non-lyrical emphasis or break in the song.


And take it, and lose it, ooh, yeah
Potentially referencing the transient nature of success or material possessions.


How far brudda?
Asking how far one is willing to go to achieve their goals.




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Downtown Music Publishing
Written by: Remi Kabaka, Joseph Junior Adenuga, Tony Oladipo Allen, Damon Albarn

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Most interesting comments from YouTube:

@tlamn1905

Pls, those unfamiliar with Tony, take a moment & at least read the first bit. TY.
"Without Tony Allen, there would be no Afrobeat." Fela Kuti

Tony Allen taught himself how to play the drums by listening to Jazz albums! He taught himself the syncopation & technicalities that makes Jazz so wonderful & so complex {and one of the US's greatest cultural exports}! How complex? Well, Tony could keep FOUR different rhythms, using 4 limbs, simultaneously! How Badarse is that? Example 2' When Tony and Fela parted ways, Fela had to hire Four drummers to replace Tony!
Read that again!↑
Before I start & as many know, Tony collaborated with so many artists, from different genres. A fitting ex: Good, Bad and the Queen. This saw Darren returning the favour appearing on Tony's 2017 album. There's many, many more, but another time. Cheers!
Tony became the drummer for the iconic Nigerian band, Africa '70, led by Fela Kuti, with whom Tony would co-found the genre known as Afrobeat. (No "s", Dammit)
Known by the deep & textured - sometimes very long, as album tracks could last 30mins & live performances 45mins - grooves, technical rhythms & gnarly time Sigs/changeups, the sound & band shared influences from & incorporated a combination of Yoruba, fuji & highlife, traditional Western African music, plus the eclectic elements of US Jazz and Funk. These combos, plus these Gentlemen, gave/give it the incredible, unique and colourful sounds.
Tony influenced so many musicians from all genres, added so much character and passion and inspiring scores of musicians daily. Afrobeat & Africa '70 played a massive role during the 60s & 70s, when protests & the Historical events as Africa emerged anew in the post-colonialism era. As more "former-colonies" appeared and maps changed frequently, good and bad times followed. But the power of this sound spread. It came to the US and inspired the Civil Rights Movement, serving a similar role as protest and hope, finding an esp. strong following with the Black Panthers and other groups.
I'm not celebrating violence and I'm not implying that's the only role such groups filled, but the changes and the times, an ocean apart and without the Interweb, Music, specifically Afrobeat, like Jazz & Funk (shortly before, with some already landing, Reggae, Ska, Punk & Dub {no, the Real Dub} and Philly, Chicago & NYC House, Detroit Techno and Rap), looked at the vastness and said: "Fuck It. I'm finding a way across!"

It gave ppl hope. It motivated & educated. It reminded them of, and to celebrate & remember, major achievements; same as it reminded them to mourn and celebrate sad losses. However, (like Tony) the music always pushed for positivity & love and regardless of the location, Tony brought ppl together. From Lagos to NYC, L. A. to Paris, Western Africa to Europe and everywhere else, Tony left this world something magical.

It's been a sad few days. Thank you, Lads, for such a lovely tribute! I know/hope it makes Tony's loved ones smile. Of less significance, it's helped me.

Thank you, Tony, Sir! I'm sure you and the late Neal P. are proper 'aving it large, playing the longest and illest dual-drum "solos" and looking down at us. Smiling.

Additional Cheers to Gilles Peterson. My appreciation for Tony, Fela & Afrobeat, like so many others, came from or was magnified by his numerous Set-lists & albums. Starting w/ my 1st listen of Side One of THAT album, INCredible by Gilles Peterson, every Essential Mix & future albums, Gilles (plus Darren & other brilliant artists) provided me the opportunity to discover & love so many new genres and artists. My sincere thanks.

#thereisnoend



@ali_dorito

Lyrics

(Laughing)
Wagwan Brother?
Time to hustle for money, give the change to your mother
Change them sheets you got stains on the cover
Better look sharp, now your face on the cover


Like a chameleon, see change in your color
Crabs in the barrel wanna hate on each other
So my life gets better, whatever the weather
I dance in the rain and I bathe in the summer
It's the black Corleone in the button up shirt
Before we take off, you better buckle up first
Fresher than the President, psychedelics got me in my element
All negativity, oh that's irrelevant
Unbelief or ganja leaf, I back strap when I wrap the sheets
Now I feel to go for a drive so I grab my keys
Shades on, roof down, tryna catch a breeze
Ridin' round the hood, got the Devil in my ear
Can you smell that? It's like jealousy in the air
Don't know who they're tryna scare
Looked at the man in the mirror; that's the only enemy that I fear
A zombie knows who to frighten
Just know I love the action but I move in silence
And, right now, I'm just taking what's mine 'till Elizabeth returns to diamonds


Wagwan Brother?
Time to hustle for money, give the change to your mother
Change them sheets you got stains on the cover
Better look sharp, now your face on the cover

Tryna' be the boss of life, gets tougher
I hope you're ready for the truth that you're gonna discover
Always gonna be a Judas at the Last Supper
Stay woke, it's a rocky road on the come-up
I take the shots like Scorsese
More money, more problems and more ladies
Everyday somebody die, still, mother gives birth to more babies
The earth spins, the world gets more crazy
You gotta have a suit for the christening
A suit for the wedding and a suit for the court case
Probably wear the same suit to the funeral
Tryna' see the bigger picture, man it's bigger than the portrait
Bigger than me, no, you can't fight your demons with Vitamin C
Have to open your mind, use your vision and see
Keep your eyes on the prize so vigilantly
Love how you live, remember the world, full of expensive sht
Can't forget the poor 'cause you're friends with the rich
Stay true to the mold, I ain't ever gonna switch


Yeah, yeah-yeah, wagwan Brother?
Time to hustle for the money, give the change to your mother
Change them sheets, you got stains on the cover
Better look sharp, now your face on the cover


Hm, who's pressin' on the buzzer?
Better check the camera, you don't wanna get stuck up
You listen close, you hear Death around the corner
One wrong move and we're all gonna suffer


Ah, yes, ooh, yeah
And take it, and lose it, ooh, yeah
And take it, and lose it, ooh, yeah
And take it, and lose it, ooh, yeah
And take it, and lose it, and take it, ah


How Far Brother?
Time to hustle for the money, give the change to your mother
Change them sheets, you got stains on the cover
Better look sharp, now your face on the cover...



@tlamn1905

@Aliyah Dorado Mad amounts of Cheers for posting! Thank you for taking the time to type this! Beautiful track, innit?
Not everyone speaks/can decipher "the other's English" (as my US mates LOVE reminding me; damn Smartarses'😁) and it sucks when such beauty & passion goes unnoticed, by accident, bc of the ol' barrier. You're helping so many people and I thought you needed to know how kick arse this is/other's needed to know how important this post is!
All lyrics (esp. these) mos def need to be appreciated by everyone. Unfortunately, the "subtle differences" between American English and The Queen's (RP), plus the latter regional dialects & accents, tend to see too many of these - proper meanings &/or brilliant lines of knowledge dropped - often get completely missed, a wee bit misunderstood or compensated by "hearing what I thought I heard". I'm not implying/saying that it's on purpose, a negative reaction, sure as Hell isn't a malicious act & no one carries fault! It just happens!
But, those unfamiliar with The Queen's &/or Blighty's Slang, will fully understand what's said and how important this message (& many more) lay within Tunes! Sometimes you gotta dig. Sometimes someone does you a favour.
Posting this, when & where you posted it, wow, you did a Proper Solid, helping so many ppl here, whilst giving massive Respect to Tony, the Lads and Noodle.

Nice One! I know it's Nothing special, LOL, but as a gesture of thanks, I'm Subbing your Channel. Had to do something, wish I could do more! Still, Respect and all the best to you & everyone out there! Stay safe.

Thank you, Tony.

#UpTheSW6



@leonsalgeuro

Gorillaz - How Far?

[Tony Allen]
Hahahahaha

[Skepta]
Yeah
Wah gwaan, brother?
Time to hustle for the money, give the change to your mother
Change them sheets, you got stains undercover cover
Better look sharp, now your face on the cover
Like a chameleon, see a change in your color
Crabs in the barrel wanna hate on each other
So my life gets better, whatever the weather
I dance in the rain and I bathe in summer

It's the black Corleone in the button-up shirt
Before we take off, you better buckle up first
Fresher than the President, psychedelics got me in my element
All negativity, oh, that's irrelevant
Amber Leaf or ganja leaf, I back strap when I wrap the sheets
Now I feel to go for a drive, so I grab my keys
Shades on, roof down, tryna catch a breeze
Ridin' 'round the hood, got the Devil in my ear
Can you smell that? Smells like jealousy in the air
Don't know who they're tryna scare
Looked at the man in the mirror, that's the only enemy that I fear
A zombie knows who to frighten
Just know I love the action, but I move in silence
And, right now, I'm just takin' what's mine till Elizabeth returns to diamonds‹
Wah gwaan, brother?
Time to hustle for the money, give the change to your mother
Change them sheets, you got stains undercover
Better look sharp, now your face on the cover‹Tryna be the boss of life, gets tougher
I hope you're ready for the truth that you're gonna discover
Always gonna be a Judas at the Last Supper
Stay woke, it's a rocky road on the come-up

I take the shots like Scorsese
More money, more problems, and more ladies
Everyday somebody die, still, mothers give birth to more babies
The Earth spins, the world gets more crazy
You gotta have a suit for the christening
A suit for the wedding and a suit for the court case
Probably wear the same suit to the funeral
Tryna see the bigger picture, man, it's bigger than the portrait
Bigger than me, no, you can't fight of your demons with vitamin C
Have to open your mind, use your vision and see
Keep your eyes on the prize so vigilantly
Love how you live, remember the world, full of expensive shit
Can't forget the poor 'cause you're friends with the rich
Stay true to the mold, I ain't ever gonna switch‹‹Yeah, yeah-yeah, wah gwaan, brother?
Time to hustle for the money, give the change to your mother
Change them sheets, you got stains undercover
Better look sharp, now your face on the cover
Hm, who's that pressin' on the buzzer?
Better check the camera, you don't wanna get stuck up
You listen close, you can hear death around the corner
One wrong move and we're all gonna suffer‹
[Tony Allen]
Ahh, ehn, oya
E dide, ero re, oya
E dide, ero re, oya
E dide, ero re, oya
E dide, ero re, E dide

[Skepta]
How far, brother?
Time to hustle for the money, give the change to your mother
Change them sheets, you got stains undercover
Better look sharp, now your face on the cover



All comments from YouTube:

@idunnowhy2901

So for everyone who's wondering why a song came "out of nowhere", Tony Allen has died on April 30th. He was the drummer in a couple of Damon's works and a friend of his. Also a brilliant afrobeat drummer

@kitchywitchyman

Thank you legen for telling us. Rest well drum god 💛

@bengy1omega268

i just found that out and i was looking to see if anybody also knew this. :(

@NexusPhotografi

Rip🕊

@FlasKamel

Drummer of Good Bad & the Queen, Rocketjuice & the Moon and legendary iconic afrobeat drummer

@mattyfox_

Ya I found out RIP to him still wondering what his cause of death was

59 More Replies...

@Karl_SR

When a Gorillaz song starts with someone laughing you know it will be a banger.

Rest in Peace Tony Allen.

@simonkvien7766

Yeah I thought so as well, then I heard the rest of the song..

@moozdoomz7573

Simon Kvien it’s a banger, no?

@semor6649

@Simon Kvien you heard the rest of the song then learned it was more than a banger

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