M.I.A.

Lyrics

[Intro]
Kid Kamillion

[Chorus]
Don't you wanna tell me if you're gonna
Put down your armor, promise no more drama

[Verse 1]
Throw up my hands I say, "I'm not Dalai Lama"
Throw up my hands say, "I'm not Obama"
I'm not Osama, Monsanto farmer
I don't drink no soda, I believe in Karma
They try to shut me down, I've still got the power
They try to hate me but I still be that lover
I know my mind, in me I'm gonna find
This is my time and I'm searching for the signs
Throw up my hands, say "this is people power"
Throw up my finger and I'm taking on the Tower

[Chorus]
Don't you wanna tell me if you're gonna
Put down your armor, promise no more drama

[Refrain]
Power
Pow-pow-pow-power
Power
Pow-pow-pow-power
[Verse 2]
You know me, I don't watch TV
People watching me are only gonna see
I'm not your enemy, FBI checking me
Curbing my money, but that don't bother me
I'm much tougher, I don't need the buffer
I keep it light, keep my head out the gutter

[Refrain]
Power
Pow-pow-pow-power

[Interlude]
I'mma do it now, I'mma do it—
I'mma do it now, I'mma do it—
I'mma do it now, I'mma show you how
Pop-pop-pa-pa-pop-pop-pa-pa
Pop-pop-pop-pop-pow

[Verse 3]
Put your hands up, put your middle fingers in the air
M.I.A. make it spray, like it's raining up in here
Think you're getting baptized, with the sweat on your tee
Where, where, where, you say where my water there
Wa-wa-wa-wa-wa, I say pa-pa-pa-pa-pa
You say wa-wa-wa-wa-wa, I say pa-pa-pa-pa-pa
Supa-Kala fascist, racist, espi-ala-tazers
Posers with cases, they better not erase us
Better come face us
[Bridge]
Hey
I'm not Rihanna, I'm not Madonna
I'm not Mariah, or Ariana
I've been around in this world causing drama
The real spice girl, hot girl power

[Outro]
Don't you wanna, tell me if you're gonna
Put down your armor, promise no more drama
Throw up my hands, say "this is people power"
Throw up my finger and I'm taking on the Tower

Get ready to be blown away by the one and only M.I.A.’s latest single, “P.O.W.A.” The outspoken singer-songwriter has made waves in the music industry with her unapologetic, politically charged songs that tackle several controversial subjects. And with “P.O.W.A.,” M.I.A. continues to push the boundaries of conventional music and makes her voice heard.

“P.O.W.A.” is the first single that M.I.A. released after her "final album," AIM. Despite announcing that she would be taking a break from the music industry, the singer surprised her fans by dropping this single out of nowhere. She had already given them a hint earlier by previewing snippets of other unreleased songs during a Periscope session in January.

Originally planned to be released on February 6, “P.O.W.A.” was delayed due to problems with M.I.A.’s record label before being released, complete with a music video, on February 8. The song’s lyrics were shared on Twitter a day before its release, allowing fans to get a sneak peek before everyone else.

About P.O.W.A.

“P.O.W.A.” is a thought-provoking, dynamic anthem that brims with M.I.A.’s signature style. As always, she doesn't shy away from discussing important social issues, and in this song, she tackles them with her usual verve.

The title stands for "Power of Women Allegiance," and the lyrics speak candidly about the status of women in society today. Throughout the song’s vibrant instrumental background, M.I.A. points out the rampant sexism that still exists and expresses her desire for women to take power back for themselves.

As the song progresses, she addresses the issue of cultural appropriation in music by calling out other artists for stealing the music and style of less well-known musicians. M.I.A. has always been vocal about appropriation and cultural imperialism, making “P.O.W.A.” a natural extension of her beliefs and artistic ideals.

Musically, “P.O.W.A.” is a glorious showcase of M.I.A.’s talents. Known for her irreverent style and eclectic choices, the song has an energetic and audacious sound that sets it apart from other tracks. The instrumentals are a mix of catchy melodies, hard-hitting beats, and M.I.A.’s own vocal stylings, making it an irresistible track that will leave listeners wanting more.

The music video, directed by M.I.A. herself, is also a work of art in its own right. Like the song, the video is a bold statement that captures the spirit of "P.O.W.A." in a visually stunning way. The video is a collage of various scenes with M.I.A. wearing different outfits and accompanied by a group of diverse women. From crowded city streets to barren deserts, the video explores a range of landscapes that complement the song's lyrics and musical stylings.

In all, "P.O.W.A." is a fantastic song that is both politically charged and musically innovative. M.I.A. is her usual unapologetic self in this song, speaking out about issues that matter while delivering a memorable and entertaining performance. If this single is a sign of things to come from M.I.A., then fans can expect her to continue pushing boundaries and inspiring change with her music.

• Release Date: February 8, 2017
• Artist: M.I.A.