‘Island’ is a visceral autobiography that touches on racial identity, Brexit, Black Lives Matter and the rise of the Far Right. At the end of the track, you will know precisely who Ali Bla Bla is, and maybe also where you stand. Can you give us more insight into your lyrics?
Ali Bla Bla: ‘Island’ captures my experience growing up in an accepting society. Still, it always reminds you that you will never truly belong to it. There are themes of institutionalised racism and ponders the psychological complexes I have developed in the process.
The video shows an unsettling chronology of social unrest throughout five decades. It is not just personal, right?
Ali Bla Bla: I’m very wary of jumping on ‘social issues’, as it seems to be the fad amongst many artists these days. However, this song is very close to home and practically wrote itself. The critical issue for me is someone trying to overcome a victim mentality, which sometimes is impossible when there are so many negative forces at play. I want people to understand that it’s ok if they feel like a victim but that it doesn’t need to define them. If there are so many others who feel the same way, we are not alone and can push through with love and empathy.
How you hope they will affect others?
Ali Bla Bla: I know, without a doubt, that many people will be able to relate to this song. It’s not just for immigrant families, but for anyone who has been made to feel like they don’t belong in the only place they know as home. I would also hope it would change the minds of a few for the positive.
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