Paper Planes is a song by British rapper M.I.A. that was released in 2007. The song has become an international hit, charting in several countries around the world and becoming a popular anthem for various causes. The song features a mix of hip-hop, reggae, and world music influences, and its lyrics contain references to world politics, conflict, and the struggles of the common person. With its catchy chorus and powerful message, it has become a classic in the hip-hop world.
Paper Planes Song Lyrics
[Verse 1]
All I wanna do is
A-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a
Take your money
[Chorus]
Paper planes, paper planes
And every day, the paper plane is getting high
And every day, the paper plane is getting high
[Verse 2]
I fly like paper, get high like planes
If you catch me at the border I got visas in my name
If you come around here, I make ’em all day
I get one down in a second if you wait
[Chorus]
Paper planes, paper planes
And every day, the paper plane is getting high
And every day, the paper plane is getting high
[Verse 3]
I’m living life, do or die
You know what I’m saying?
Aye, aye, aye, aye, aye, aye, aye, aye, aye, aye, aye, aye, aye, aye
Living life, do or die
You know what I’m saying?
[Chorus]
Paper planes, paper planes
And every day, the paper plane is getting high
And every day, the paper plane is getting high
[Outro]
Paper planes, paper planes
And every day, the paper plane is getting high
And every day, the paper plane is getting high
Meaning Behind the Lyrics
The lyrics of Paper Planes are an ode to the struggles of the common person. The song speaks to the idea that money is not always the answer to life’s problems, and that sometimes it takes courage and determination to make it through the day. The chorus of the song is particularly powerful, with its repeated refrain of “Paper planes, paper planes, and every day the paper plane is getting high.” This line speaks to the idea that despite the obstacles we face, if we keep trying, we can rise above our circumstances.
The song also contains references to world politics and conflict, hinting at the struggles of people in different parts of the world who are affected by global issues. The line “if you catch me at the border I got visas in my name” speaks to the idea of people trying to cross borders to escape war and poverty, while “I’m living life, do or die” suggests the idea of living for something bigger than oneself.
Paper Planes is a song that speaks to the struggles of the common person, while also referencing global issues and conflict. The catchy chorus and powerful lyrics make it an anthem for many causes, and its message of resilience and determination is one that resonates with people all over the world.