Analyzing Song Lyrics

Student’s Name

Professor’s Name

Course

Date

Analyzing Song Lyrics

Essential Research Question: What are the major concerns surrounding immigration and its effects, and how does music help address the problem?

Identified Songs:

1. “Paper Planes” (2008) by M.I.A

2. “The Plane Land” (2008) by Richie Spice

3. “Clear Isabel” (2017) by Aaron Watson

Selected Song:

“Paper Planes” (2008) by M.I.A

M.I.A’s “Paper Planes” (2008) is the most suitable for researching the topic because the author gives a clear description of how immigration is marred with significant constraints. The composer narrates how she fails to enter the U.S. due to racial factors. M.I.A’s song further relates to the research question because the artist creates the need to embrace change in the handling of immigration practices. Besides, the song relates to the research question because it helps to understand some of the reasons that result in hurdles when crossing international borders. According to M.I.A, embracing social change is the only way to overcome such constraints. Otherwise, the audience learns from the song that injustices would prevail thereby deterring many people from moving from one place to the other.

I feel attracted to the lyrics that say “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 done in a second if you wait.” The lyrics mean that immigration officers still disturb the singer despite having a visa with her name written on it. I consider the lyrics to be influential because it urge immigration officers to be fair in their practices and try to facilitate the movement of those who have credible travel documents.