Loin De Toi
Maria-José Lyrics

The lyrics of Maria-José's song "Loin De Toi" contain powerful messages about ambition, determination, staying true to oneself, and rejecting false pretenses in the world of fame and success. The opening lines express a desire to shine like the "gringos" (a term often used to refer to Americans) and reach the top by doing whatever it takes. The artist is determined to achieve success and status, even in the face of obstacles and criticism, asserting that they do not have time for falsehoods and are aware of the negative perceptions others may have of them. The mention of a "bendo" (likely referring to a luxury car or lifestyle) emphasizes the desire for material success, despite the challenges.

The following verse includes a spiritual reference to Nzambe (God, in some African cultures) and a plea for protection from negative influences. The artist acknowledges that many individuals may wish them harm or failure, but they remain resilient and unyielding. By asserting their faith and determination, they defy those who seek to bring them down or discourage them. The use of local language phrases adds depth and cultural resonance to the lyrics, heightening the emotional impact of the message.

The lyrics then shift focus to criticize other artists in the rap industry, dismissing them as liars and pretenders who project a false image of toughness and authenticity for the sake of cameras and public perception. The artist asserts their independence by refusing to listen to these fake personas and calling them out for their lack of credibility. The reference to a cinematic facade highlights the contrast between superficial displays of bravado and the artist's grounded reality, highlighting the disingenuous nature of fame and image in the industry.

In the chorus, the artist directly confronts the phoniness and insincerity of those around them, urging them to step aside and stop feeding them false stories ("salades"). The repetition of "Pousse toi d'la" (move aside) reflects the artist's determination to navigate their own path and live authentically, free from the influences and manipulations of others. By emphasizing the distinction between the perceived glamour of show business and the true essence of life's journey, the artist asserts their right to walk confidently and unapologetically in their own truth, undeterred by external pressures or expectations.