Signed to XL Recordings, they released the Oya EP in June 2014 which also includes the song River. Mama says was released in November, extracted from their eponymous Richard Russell produced album launched in February 16th, 2015. A third song from "Ibeyi", Ghosts, was promoted in January 2015 before they embarked on an extensive European and US Tour.
http://www.ibeyi.fr
Fly
Ibeyi Lyrics
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I saw him pass away, sad day
I fly, I fly
Fly my spirit and let me heal this heart
It's painful to see my momma's tears
My sister hiding all her fears
I fly, I fly, I fly
Fly my spirit and let me heal this heart
That when I want to cry, I always smile
I fly, I fly, I fly
Fly my spirit and let me heal this heart
Listen to my prayer
Fly, fly
Fly my spirit and let me heal this heart
I fly, I fly, I fly
Fly my spirit and let me heal this heart
I fly, I fly
Fly my spirit and let me heal
The lyrics of Ibeyi's song "Fly" revolve around the theme of pain and healing. The singer talks about the difficulties and hardships she has faced in her life, including the passing of someone close to her, her mother's tears, and her own struggles with hiding her pain. She speaks of the healing power of flying, using the symbolism of a soaring spirit to help her overcome her emotional pain and distress. The song has a gentle and uplifting quality, with its repeated refrain of "I fly, I fly" creating a feeling of lightness and hopefulness.
At its core, "Fly" is a song about the human condition and the need for emotional release and healing. The singer acknowledges the pain she has experienced and the struggles she has faced, but also recognizes that there is a path to healing and renewal. By embracing the power of flight and releasing her spirit into the universe, she is able to find a sense of peace and comfort in the face of life's challenges.
Some possible interpretations of the lyrics include the idea that "flying" represents a form of escapism, a way to leave behind the pain and suffering of the world and find a sense of freedom and hope. The repeated refrain of "I fly, I fly" could be seen as a mantra, a way to focus the mind and overcome negative thoughts and feelings. Ultimately, the song leaves the interpretation up to the listener, inviting us to find our own meaning and understanding of its message.
Line by Line Meaning
It's painful to say goodbye
Acknowledging the pain and discomfort that comes with parting ways with someone or something that was a significant part of one's life
I saw him pass away, sad day
Recalling the sadness that comes with the loss of a loved one and reflecting on the memories of the person who has passed away
I fly, I fly
Using metaphorical language to describe a spiritual journey or escape from the pain, struggles, and challenges of life
Fly my spirit and let me heal this heart
Asking for strength and guidance from a higher power to overcome difficulties and find healing for emotional wounds
It's painful to see my momma's tears
Observing the sadness and distress of someone close to the artist and feeling helpless in the face of their pain
My sister hiding all her fears
Witnessing the struggles and challenges faced by a loved one, and recognizing their effort to protect themselves and others by hiding their vulnerabilities
I fly, I fly, I fly
Using repetition to reinforce the message of spiritual and emotional transformation
Fly my spirit and let me heal this heart
Emphasizing the importance of self-care and growth through a spiritual journey that leads to finding inner peace and hope
It's painful to admit that I lie
Acknowledging the vulnerability of being dishonest with oneself and others, and the inner turmoil that arises as a result of hiding the truth
That when I want to cry, I always smile
Recognizing the facade of happiness that one wears in order to mask their true emotions, and the unhealthy coping mechanisms that arise from denying and suppressing one's feelings
Listen to my prayer
Requesting to be heard and understood by a higher power, and the hope of finding solace and guidance through faith and prayer
Fly, fly
Repeating the theme of a spiritual journey or escape, and the freedom that comes with seeking strength and healing through faith
Fly my spirit and let me heal this heart
Reiterating the importance of finding the courage to embark on a spiritual journey, and the potential that lies in discovering inner peace and hope
I fly, I fly, I fly
Closing the lyrics with the repetition of the message of the song, emphasizing the transformative power of a spiritual journey and the hope of finding healing and strength through faith.
Fly my spirit and let me heal
Finalizing the song's message, by reminding that inner healing is not only important for oneself but also one's spirit shall fly, towards peace and harmony.
Writer(s): Lisa Kainde Diaz, Paula Moore, Naomi Diaz
Contributed by Elizabeth H. Suggest a correction in the comments below.