Yo-Yo Ma (born October 7, 1955) is an American cellist. Born to and partial… Read Full Bio ↴Yo-Yo Ma (born October 7, 1955) is an American cellist. Born to and partially raised by Chinese parents in Paris and educated in New York City, he was a child prodigy, performing from the age of four and a half. He graduated from the Juilliard School and Harvard University, attended Columbia University, and has performed as a soloist with orchestras around the world. He has recorded more than 92 albums and received 19 Grammy Awards.

In addition to recordings of the standard classical repertoire, Ma has recorded a wide variety of folk music, such as American bluegrass music, traditional Chinese melodies, the tangos of Argentine composer Astor Piazzolla, and Brazilian music. He has also collaborated with artists from a diverse range of genres, including Bobby McFerrin, Carlos Santana, Chris Botti, Diana Krall, James Taylor, Miley Cyrus, and Sting.

Ma has been a United Nations Messenger of Peace since 2006. He has received numerous awards, including the Avery Fisher Prize in 1978, The Glenn Gould Prize in 1999, the National Medal of Arts in 2001, the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011, Kennedy Center Honors in 2011, the Polar Music Prize in 2012, and the Birgit Nilsson Prize in 2022. He was named as one of Time's 100 Most Influential People of 2020. Aside from English, Ma is fluent in Mandarin Chinese and French.

Ma's primary performance instrument is the Davidov cello, made in 1712 by Antonio Stradivari

Ma's mother, Marina Lu, was a singer, and his father, Hiao-Tsiun Ma, was a violinist, composer and professor of music at Nanjing National Central University (now relocated in Taoyuan, Taiwan; predecessor of the present-day Nanjing University and Southeast University). They both migrated from the Republic of China to France during the Chinese Civil War. Ma's sister, Yeou-Cheng Ma, played the violin and piano professionally before obtaining a medical degree from Harvard and becoming a pediatrician. The family moved to New York City when Ma was seven.

From the age of three, Ma played the drums, violin, piano, and later viola, but settled on the cello in 1960 at age four. When three-year-old Yo-Yo said he wanted a big instrument, his father went to see Etienne Vatelot, a foremost violin maker in Paris who, after a chat, lent him a 1/16th cello. He jokes that his first choice was the double bass due to its large size, but he compromised and took up the cello instead. When his father realized that Yo-Yo was ready for a better teacher, a well-known cello instructor, Mme Michelle Lepinte, was selected. He began performing before audiences at age five and played for presidents Dwight D. Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy when he was seven. At age eight, he appeared on American television with his sister in an event introduced by Leonard Bernstein. In 1964, Isaac Stern introduced them on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, and they performed the Sonata of Sammartini. He attended Trinity School in New York but transferred to the Professional Children's School, where he graduated at age 15. He appeared as a soloist with the Harvard Radcliffe Orchestra in a performance of Tchaikovsky's Rococo Variations.

Ma studied at the Juilliard School at age 19 with Leonard Rose and attended Columbia University, but dropped out. He later enrolled at Harvard College. Prior to entering Harvard, Ma played in the Marlboro Festival Orchestra under the direction of cellist, conductor and Ma’s childhood hero Pablo Casals. He spent four summers at the Marlboro Music Festival after meeting and falling in love with Mount Holyoke College sophomore and festival administrator Jill Hornor during his first summer there in 1972.

Even before that time, Ma gained fame and performed with many of the world's major orchestras. He has also played chamber music, often with pianist Emanuel Ax, with whom he has a close friendship from their days at Juilliard. Ma received his bachelor's degree in anthropology from Harvard in 1976, and in 1991 received an honorary doctorate from Harvard.

Yo-Yo Ma has been referred to by critics as "omnivorous" and possesses an eclectic repertoire. In addition to numerous recordings of the standard classical repertoire, he has recorded Baroque pieces using period instruments; American bluegrass music; traditional Chinese melodies, including the soundtrack to the film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon; the tangos of Argentinian composer Astor Piazzolla; Brazilian music, recording traditional and contemporary songs composed by Antônio Carlos Jobim and Pixinguinha; a collaboration with Bobby McFerrin (where Ma admitted to being terrified by McFerrin's improvisation); and the music of modern minimalist Philip Glass, in such works as the 2002 Naqoyqatsi.

Ma is known for his smooth, rich tone, soulful lyricism, and virtuosity. He released a cello recording of Niccolò Paganini's Caprice No. 24 for solo violin and Zoltán Kodály's Solo Sonata.

On May 1, 2019, he performed at Paranal Observatory in the Atacama desert. He said that his interest in astronomy motivated him to visit and perform there.

Ma's albums include recordings of cello concertos, sonatas for cello and piano, works for solo cello, and a variety of chamber music. He has also recorded in non-classical styles, notably in collaboration with artists such as Bobby McFerrin, Carlos Santana, Chris Botti, Chris Thile, Diana Krall, James Taylor, Miley Cyrus and Sting.

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Yo-Yo Ma Lyrics

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Feels So Good f. Ne-Yo

[Ne-Yo]
We up in this room (Yea)
I'm here puttin it down on you (mmm)
Now your pushin back At me and I don't want to let you leave
But baby girl You feel so good
Lil mama tha thing is so good

Girl the way that movin so good
I wanna do it again do it again (so good)

[Remy]
Stop actin crazy imma keep it real
See I just need some one that gives me sumthin I could feel
Have a little small talk and a night on the town
It could all be yours if you go a nother round
Don't wanna loose you in it 'cause the groove iz in it
But it really don't matter long as you be in it
Boo wats gotten in to you
I told you I got a interview but you wanna get intement
Why you tryna get in to it

[Ne-Yo]
Baby I noe you got moves to make
But you ain't leavin till I get a nother taste
I ain't ashamed to say you got a nigga open babe
And imma need some more before you get away
(ooooh)
We up in this room (Yea)
I'm here puttin it down on you (mmm)
Now your pushin back At me and I don't want to let you leave
But baby girl You feel so good
Lil mama tha thing is so good
Girl the way that movin so good

I wanna do it again do it again (so good)

[Remy]
Yea you pushen further and I'm seeing that you lovin it
I'm pushen back and got you callin out ma government like remenice
I'm really feelin this and I don't like to kiss but I really like ya lips
See I'm tryna hold it but I can't control it
Ma mind is tellin me stop but my it keeps goin
You want me to stay but I wish I could
Another day but tell me why I should

[Ne-Yo]
Baby I noe you got moves to make
But you ain't leavin till I get a nother taste
I ain't ashamed to say you got a nigga open babe
And imma need some more before you get away
(ooooh)
We up in this room (ooowowo)
I'm here puttin it down on you (mmm)
Now your pushin back At me and I don't want to let you leave
'cause baby girl You feel so good
Lil mama tha thing is so good
Girl the way that movin so good
I wanna do it again do it again (so good)

[Remy]
So good you can't even keep your hands off
So good you feel you need to go and put ya mans on
You got ya black berry off and your phone vibrating
And all you wanna noe iz why ma legs keep shakin
See we both grown and I noe wen the feel is right
And wat you sayin is makin me wanna spend the night
And now I focused and I'm open 'cause ya noticed me
And I was hoping you'd say can I take you home with me

[Ne-Yo]
Baby I noe you got moves to make
But you ain't leavin till I get a nother taste
I ain't ashamed to say you got a nigga open babe
And imma need some more before you get away
(ooooh)
We up in this room (We up in this room)
I'm here puttin it down on you (owowowoo yea)
Now your pushin back At me don't want to let you leave
But baby girl You feel so good
Lil mama tha thing is so good
And baby girl you feel so good
Girl the way that movin so good
I wanna do it again do it again (so good)

Baby I noe you got moves to make
But you ain't leavin till I get a nother taste
I ain't ashamed to say you got a nigga open babe
And imma need some more before you get away
(ooooh)
We up in this room (Yea)
I'm here puttin it down on you (mmm)
Now your pushin back At me and I don't want to let you leave
But baby girl You feel so good
Lil mama tha thing is so good
Girl the way that movin so good
I wanna do it again do it again (so good)

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "Feels So Good" featuring Ne-Yo delve into themes of desire, intimacy, and the intoxicating nature of connection. The song captures the electric atmosphere of being in a close space with someone, emphasizing a sense of urgency and longing. In the first verse, Ne-Yo sets the scene of the room where the two individuals are engaged in a passionate exchange. There’s a palpable tension as he expresses his reluctance to let her leave, highlighting the allure and thrill of their interaction. She feels "so good," not just in a physical sense but also in how she affects him emotionally. The repetition of phrases like "so good" conveys a sense of addiction to the chemistry they share—he is left wanting more, showcasing how intoxicating such moments of connection can be.

In the subsequent verses, Remy further expands on the notion of seeking depth in a relationship while navigating playful banter. He expresses a desire for someone who can engage him on various levels, not just physically but also emotionally and intellectually, even highlighting the significance of "small talk." This shows that, while intense attraction is central to their interaction, there's also a longing for a more meaningful connection. Remy's mention of keeping it real emphasizes the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in intimate encounters. Despite his intentions for a casual moment, he finds himself captivated by her, struggling to balance his desires with the realities of his life, including professional obligations, which adds complexity to their relationship.

The chorus repeats a sense of possessiveness and urgency, reinforcing Ne-Yo's insistence on not letting her escape his grasp without another experience together. The repeated desire for "another taste" illustrates a craving that goes beyond the physical interaction; it reflects an overwhelming need to savor the moment fully. This notion of savoring experiences encapsulates the human experience of indulgence and hedonism in relationships, where moments of pleasure are sought after aggressively, often leading to a sense of urgency to capture those fleeting instants before they dissipate.

Ultimately, these lyrics encapsulate a blend of lust and emotional complexity. The interplay between passion and the desire for deeper connection paints an intricate picture of contemporary romantic interactions. Through expressive language and evocative imagery, the song highlights how moments of intimacy can become addictive. The characters find themselves caught in a whirlwind of mutual attraction, balancing playful encounters with unspoken sentiments that linger in the room long after the physical aspects have taken place. In essence, "Feels So Good" is as much about the thrill of desire as it is about the sweet intoxication of human connection, which seems to be deeply cherished and hard to let go of.

Line by Line Meaning

We up in this room (Yea)
We are together in this private space, creating an intimate atmosphere.

I'm here puttin it down on you (mmm)
I'm fully engaged and giving you all my attention and affection.

Now your pushin back At me and I don't want to let you leave
You are responding actively to my advances, and I desire to keep this connection going.

But baby girl You feel so good
Your presence is pleasurable and fulfilling; you bring me joy.

Lil mama tha thing is so good
You, dear, are exceptional and I find everything about you delightful.

Girl the way that movin so good
The way you carry yourself captivates me and adds to your allure.

I wanna do it again do it again (so good)
I have an overwhelming desire to experience this connection repeatedly.

Stop actin crazy imma keep it real
Let’s bypass any games; I want to be straightforward and sincere.

See I just need some one that gives me sumthin I could feel
I crave a genuine connection with someone who can stir my emotions.

Have a little small talk and a night on the town
Let’s engage in casual conversation and enjoy going out together.

It could all be yours if you go a nother round
If you are willing to continue this engagement, I am open to deepening the relationship.

Don't wanna loose you in it 'cause the groove iz in it
I want to hold on to this moment because it feels captivating and enchanting.

But it really don't matter long as you be in it
Ultimately, the specifics don't concern me; what matters is that you are part of this experience.

Boo wats gotten in to you
What has inspired your sudden enthusiasm or passion?

I told you I got a interview but you wanna get intement
Despite my commitments, you seem intent on pursuing a deeper connection.

Why you tryna get in to it
Why are you pushing to connect so intimately despite my circumstances?

Baby I noe you got moves to make
I understand you have responsibilities and plans to attend to.

But you ain't leavin till I get a nother taste
I would like to savor more of this connection before you depart.

I ain't ashamed to say you got a nigga open babe
I’m honestly revealing that you have me feeling vulnerable and receptive.

And imma need some more before you get away
I require additional time or experience with you before you leave my presence.

(ooooh)
A sound of longing or desire that emphasizes my feelings.

We up in this room (ooowowo)
We are still inside this intimate space, deepening our bond.

I'm here puttin it down on you (mmm)
I am fully invested in this moment and dedicated to you.

Now your pushin back At me and I don't want to let you leave
Your response encourages me to stay in this captivating experience.

But baby girl You feel so good
Your presence continues to bring me immense pleasure and satisfaction.

Lil mama tha thing is so good
You are a precious person, and everything about you enriches my life.

Girl the way that movin so good
Your movements are so alluring; they enhance my attraction to you.

I wanna do it again do it again (so good)
I am eager to experience this delightful connection time and again.

Yea you pushen further and I'm seeing that you lovin it
Your eagerness to engage tells me that you are enjoying this as much as I am.

I'm pushen back and got you callin out ma government like remenice
As I respond to you, you reveal your enthusiasm by calling me by my name passionately.

I'm really feelin this and I don't like to kiss but I really like ya lips
Even though I typically shy away from kissing, I find your lips irresistibly attractive.

See I'm tryna hold it but I can't control it
I am attempting to maintain composure, but my emotions are overwhelming.

Ma mind is tellin me stop but my it keeps goin
My rational mind is warning me to pull back, but my instincts want to push forward.

You want me to stay but I wish I could
You desire for me to remain, and I genuinely wish I could comply.

Another day but tell me why I should
I contemplate spending more time together, but I seek a compelling reason to do so.

So good you can't even keep your hands off
The experience is so enjoyable that you feel compelled to physically engage.

So good you feel you need to go and put ya mans on
The pleasure feels so intense that you consider sharing this experience with someone significant.

You got ya black berry off and your phone vibrating
You’ve put away distractions, allowing your full attention to be on this moment.

And all you wanna noe iz why ma legs keep shakin
You are intrigued by the physical response this encounter evokes within me.

See we both grown and I noe wen the feel is right
We are both mature adults who recognize when a connection is genuine and strong.

And wat you sayin is makin me wanna spend the night
Your words resonate deeply with me, making me wish to prolong our time together.

And now I focused and I'm open 'cause ya noticed me
I am fully attentive and receptive because I feel your awareness of me.

And I was hoping you'd say can I take you home with me
I long for you to express a desire to continue this connection beyond the current setting.

Baby I noe you got moves to make
I understand you have goals or commitments to pursue.

But you ain't leavin till I get a nother taste
You should stay with me a while longer so we can deepen this experience.

I ain't ashamed to say you got a nigga open babe
I openly admit that you have affected me deeply, making me vulnerable.

And imma need some more before you get away
I crave additional time together before you depart from my life.

(ooooh)
A sound expressing longing and desire for the continued connection.

We up in this room (We up in this room)
We remain in this intimate space, allowing our connection to grow.

I'm here puttin it down on you (owowowoo yea)
I am passionately devoted to you, fully engaging in this moment.

Now your pushin back At me don't want to let you leave
You are responding to my advances, indicating your desire to stay.

But baby girl You feel so good
Your essence brings immense happiness and satisfaction to my life.

Lil mama tha thing is so good
You are remarkable, and everything about you fills me with joy.

And baby girl you feel so good
You have an invigorating effect on me, enhancing my well-being.

Girl the way that movin so good
Your movements are enticing and captivating, drawing me closer.

I wanna do it again do it again (so good)
I yearn to relive this wonderful experience once more.

Baby I noe you got moves to make
I recognize that you have other important commitments to address.

But you ain't leavin till I get a nother taste
Stay a little longer; I want to enjoy this moment again before you leave.

I ain't ashamed to say you got a nigga open babe
I openly acknowledge that you have me feeling vulnerable and aware.

And imma need some more before you get away
I desire additional time to explore this connection before you exit my life.

(ooooh)
A sound of longing, underscoring my eagerness to retain this connection.

We up in this room (Yea)
Here we are, together in this intimate place, where we can deepen our interaction.

I'm here puttin it down on you (mmm)
I am dedicated to making this experience as enjoyable and fulfilling as possible.

Now your pushin back At me and I don't want to let you leave
Your reactions signal enthusiasm, and I wish to prolong our time together.

But baby girl You feel so good
Your energy radiates pleasure, making this moment incredibly satisfying.

Lil mama tha thing is so good
You are extraordinary and the joy you bring is unparalleled.

Girl the way that movin so good
Your movements are so entrancing that they draw me in completely.

I wanna do it again do it again (so good)
I long to experience this connection once more—it is that fulfilling.

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Royalty Network, REACH MUSIC PUBLISHING
Written by: REMY KIONI SMITH, JEROME FOSTER, SHAFFER SMITH, L Coppin, Remy Smith

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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