Analyzing the Hidden Meanings in Vanessa Mdee’s “Kisela” Lyrics
Vanessa Mdee, also known as Vee Money, is a Tanzanian singer, songwriter, and actress. Over the years, she has gained international recognition for her catchy songs and unique musical style. One of her popular tracks, “Kisela,” released in 2017, has captivated audiences with its upbeat rhythm and infectious lyrics. While the song may appear to be a love anthem at first glance, a deeper analysis reveals hidden meanings and social commentary embedded within the song.
The title of the song, “Kisela,” is derived from a Swahili word that means “shake.” In the African context, when someone is told to “kisela,” it means to dance or move your body in a rhythmic way. Vanessa Mdee uses this term metaphorically in the song to urge people to let go of their inhibitions and dance freely. It can be seen as a call for self-expression and embracing one’s individuality.
The lyrics of “Kisela” are in both Swahili and English, blending different languages to reach a wider audience. This linguistic diversity represents the multicultural nature of Tanzania, where multiple languages are spoken. It is also reflective of Vanessa Mdee’s own experiences and background as a multilingual artist. By incorporating different languages, she highlights the importance of unity and acceptance in a diverse society.
The opening lines of the song are “Life is short, my darling, let’s dance. Oh, don’t let the memories be all we have.” These lyrics set the tone for the rest of the song, emphasizing the fleeting nature of life and the need to make the most of every moment. It encourages listeners to live life to the fullest, rather than dwelling on past experiences or regrets.
As the song progresses, Vanessa Mdee touches upon themes of love, heartbreak, and betrayal. She sings, “Nipe cha moyo, cha moyo we ndio nipe cha moyo, cha moyo,” which translates to “Give me your heart, your heart is what I want, give me your heart, your heart.” These verses speak to the desire for a deep emotional connection, indicating that love is a recurring theme in the song.
However, the lyrics also allude to the vulnerability that comes with love. In one verse, Mdee sings, “Don’t break my heart, don’t let me go,” expressing a fear of heartbreak and abandonment. This vulnerability is further emphasized in the chorus when she repeats, “Kisela kisela, I need your love, kisela kisela, you’re all I want.” The repetition of the phrase “Kisela kisela” serves as a plea for certainty and reassurance in a chaotic world.
While love is a central theme in “Kisela,” there are also hints of social commentary in the lyrics. In one verse, Mdee sings, “Baby, let’s dance to forget about the leaders, yeah, we balling like Messi, yeah.” Here, she touches upon the idea of dancing as a form of escapism from the issues plaguing society. The reference to leaders and comparing oneself to Lionel Messi, an acclaimed football player, suggests a desire for freedom and a better world. It implies that dancing can be a form of protest or resistance against societal injustices.
In addition to the hidden meanings in the lyrics, the music video for “Kisela” further enhances the message conveyed in the song. The video, directed by Justin Campos, features vibrant visuals, energetic dance routines, and diverse cast members. Through the visuals, Mdee reinforces the themes of unity, self-expression, and breaking free from societal norms.
In conclusion, Vanessa Mdee’s song “Kisela” goes beyond a simple love anthem and delves into deeper meanings and social commentary. The lyrics, infused with both Swahili and English, convey messages of self-expression, vulnerability, and the fleeting nature of life. Additionally, the music video adds a visual dimension to the song, emphasizing themes of unity and the power of self-expression. “Kisela” serves as a reminder to embrace life, dance freely, and seek love and connection while challenging societal issues along the way.