opening
Mokhtar Samba Lyrics

The lyrics of Mokhtar Samba's song, "Opening," encourage the listener to stop searching for external validation and instead look within themselves for the strength they need. The opening lines suggest that the singer has been searching for a sign, but the lyrics urge them to "open your heart" and "open your mind," implying that they will find what they are searching for within. Nayala oh mbifé nayala and Nayala nalingui yomotéma nayala, are phrases that are repeated throughout the song, it is not clear what they mean, but it is possible they are drawn from a West African language or dialect. The next lines that follow are in Bambara, native to Mali, and translate to "hold on to your morals and values, no matter what happens, do not compromise your principles."

The larger message of the song encourages listeners to have faith in themselves and their strength to overcome challenges, and not to let external factors determine their worth. The repetition of the Nayala oh mbifé nayala and Nayala nalingui yomotéma nayala phrases throughout the song provides a rhythmic hook and a sense of continuity amidst the Bambara lyrics. The song highlights the roots and the rich heritage of West Africa, which Samba, originally from Senegal, has incorporated into his music.