M.I.A.

Lyrics

[Refrain]
London callin'
Speak the slang now
Boys say, "Wha gwan?"
Girls say, "Wha, what?"
London callin'
Speak the slang now
Boys say, "Wha gwan?"
Girls say, "Wha, what?"

[Pre-Chorus]
Slam!
Galang, galang, galang
Ga-la, ga-la, ga-la
Lang-ga-lang, galang
Shotgun, get down
Get down, get down, get down
Ge-d-, ge-d-, ge-d-down, g-down, g-down
Too late, you down
D-down, d-down, d-down
Ta-na, ta-na, ta-na
Ta-na, ta-na-ta

[Chorus]
Blaze a blaze, galang-a-lang-a-lang-lang
Purple haze, galang-a-lang-a-lang-lang
Blaze a blaze, galang-a-lang-a-lang-lang
Purple haze, galang-a-lang-a-ang-lang
[Verse 1]
Who the hell is huntin' you
In the BMW?
How the hell he find you?
147'd you
Feds gon' get you
Pull the strings on the hood
One paranoid youth
Blazin' through the hood
Who the hell is huntin' you
In the BMW?
How the hell he find you?
147'd you
Feds gon' get you
Pull the strings on the hood
One paranoid youth
Blazin' through the hood

[Chorus]
Blaze a blaze, galang-a-lang-a-lang-lang
Purple haze, galang-a-lang-a-lang-lang
Blaze a blaze, galang-a-lang-a-lang-lang
Purple haze, galang-a-lang-a-ang-lang

[Refrain]
London callin'
Speak the slang now
Boys say, "Wha gwan?"
Girls say, "Wha, what?"
London callin'
Speak the slang now
Boys say, "Wha gwan?"
Girls say, "Wha, what?"
[Verse 2]
They say
Rivers gonna run though
Work is gonna save you
Pray and you will pull through
Suck a dick'll help you
Don't let 'em get to you
If he's got one, you get two
Backstab your crew
Sell it, I could sell you
They say
Rivers gonna run though
Work is gonna save you
Pray and you will pull through
Suck a dick'll help you
Don't let 'em get to you
If he's got one, you get two
Backstab your crew
Sell it I could sell you

[Chorus]
Blaze a blaze, galang-a-lang-a-lang-lang
Purple haze, galang-a-lang-a-lang-lang
Blaze a blaze, galang-a-lang-a-lang-lang
Purple haze, galang-a-lang-a-ang-lang
Blaze a blaze, galang-a-lang-a-lang-lang
Purple haze, galang-a-lang-a-lang-lang
Blaze a blaze, galang-a-lang-a-lang-lang
Purple haze, galang-a-lang-a-ang-lang
[Outro]
Ya-ya hey
Woah eh-oh-eh-oh-oh-oh
Ya-ya yay
Ya-ya hey
Woah eh-oh-eh-oh-oh-oh
Ya-ya yay
Ya-ya hey
Woah eh-oh-eh-oh-oh-oh
Ya-ya yay
Ya-ya hey
Woah eh-oh-eh-oh-oh-oh
Ya-ya yay
Ya-ya hey
Woah eh-oh-eh-oh-oh-oh
Ya-ya yay
Ya-ya hey
Woah eh-oh-eh-oh-oh-oh
Ya-ya yay

If there's one song that embodies M.I.A.'s unique sound and eclectic style, it's undoubtedly "Galang." Released in 2003 as her debut single, this track burst onto the music scene with an energy and freshness that captivated audiences around the world. With its infectious beats, catchy melodies, and thought-provoking lyrics, "Galang" quickly became a game-changer in the world of pop and hip-hop music.

From the very first note, "Galang" grabs your attention and never lets go. The song is a fusion of various musical genres, including electronic, dancehall, and grime, creating a truly one-of-a-kind sonic experience. M.I.A.'s distinctive voice cuts through the pulsating beats, delivering her lyrics with a fierce and confident attitude.

About Galang

"Galang" is not just a catchy tune; it carries a strong sense of cultural identity and political commentary. M.I.A., whose real name is Mathangi Arulpragasam, was born in London to Sri Lankan Tamil parents. Her diverse background and experiences growing up in various countries heavily influenced her music.

The lyrics of "Galang" reflect M.I.A.'s multicultural upbringing and her desire to challenge societal norms. The song addresses issues of immigration, identity, and the struggles faced by immigrants and refugees. M.I.A.'s bold and honest storytelling in her lyrics resonated with many listeners who could relate to the themes she explored.

What sets "Galang" apart from other songs is its ability to be both perplexing and bursting with energy. The combination of M.I.A.'s rapid-fire delivery and the pulsating beats creates a sense of urgency and excitement. The song's unpredictable structure and unconventional sound keep listeners on their toes, making it impossible to resist the urge to move and groove.

Imagine being at a music festival, surrounded by thousands of people, when the first few notes of "Galang" start playing. The crowd instantly becomes electrified as they recognize the iconic beats. As M.I.A. takes the stage, her energy is infectious, and the audience dances and sings along to every word.

"Galang" is not just a song; it's an anthem for those who dare to be different and challenge the status quo. M.I.A.'s bold and unapologetic approach to music and activism has made her a trailblazer in the industry. With "Galang," she set the stage for her future groundbreaking work, pushing boundaries and inspiring countless artists along the way.

As the years have passed since its release, "Galang" continues to be a standout track in M.I.A.'s discography. It has become a timeless classic that represents a pivotal moment in music history. Its influence can be heard in the work of artists across different genres, as they strive to capture the same energy and authenticity that "Galang" exudes.

Whether you're a long-time fan of M.I.A. or just discovering her music, "Galang" is a must-listen. Its infectious beats, thought-provoking lyrics, and captivating energy make it a song that you won't be able to get out of your head. So, turn up the volume, embrace the groove, and let "Galang" take you on a musical journey you won't soon forget.

• Release Date: October 11, 2005
• Artist: M.I.A.