Song Meaning
Song Breakdown
Intro - Sean Paul
The song opens with a heartfelt dedication to single mothers, acknowledging their struggles and unyielding devotion. Clean Bandit sets the stage for a narrative filled with empathy and admiration, while Sean Paul and Anne - Marie lend their voices to amplify this message, making sure it resonates with listeners.Verse 1 - Anne - Marie, Sean Paul
Anne - Marie introduces us to the protagonist, a mother working tirelessly by the water, distanced from her own family roots. Her journey is marked by a profound sense of isolation as she strives to secure a future for her child. The imagery of her being "far away from her father's daughter" evokes a sense of loss and determination, highlighting her daily struggles in a world that seems indifferent.Pre - Chorus - Anne - Marie, Sean Paul
In a tender moment, the mother reassures her child of her love and protection. Her promise that "nobody matters like you" underscores the depth of her commitment. She dreams of a life for her child that is free from the hardships she has endured, a life filled with hope and opportunity. This section captures the essence of her resolve to break the cycle of struggle and ensure a brighter future.Chorus - Anne - Marie
The chorus is a soothing lullaby, with Anne - Marie's voice offering comfort and assurance. The repetition of "rockabye" serves as both a promise and a prayer, a vow to shelter and nurture her child through life's storms. It encapsulates the nurturing spirit of the mother, who is ever - present, ready to soothe away fears and tears.Post - Chorus - Sean Paul, Anne - Marie
Sean Paul and Anne - Marie's rhythmic interplay reinforces the mother's unwavering presence. The refrain "rocka - rocka - rockabye" becomes a mantra of resilience, echoing the mother's enduring strength and the protective cocoon she creates for her child.Verse 2 - Sean Paul, Anne - Marie
Sean Paul takes the lead, celebrating the mother's courage and tenacity. He paints a vivid picture of her daily battles, from financial struggles to the absence of a partner. Yet, her spirit remains unbroken. She faces each obstacle with unwavering resolve, driven by a love that is "beyond compare." This verse is a testament to her indomitable spirit and the sacrifices she makes year after year.Refrain - Anne - Marie
Anne - Marie returns, focusing on the mother's tender moments with her young child. Her efforts to keep him warm and safe are a testament to her unwavering dedication. The child's innocence, unaware of the battles his mother fights, adds a layer of poignancy to the narrative, highlighting the silent strength of a mother's love.Pre - Chorus - Anne - Marie
The pre - chorus is reiterated, reinforcing the mother's promises to her child. Her words are a balm, assuring him of a life filled with love and devoid of the struggles she has faced. It is a powerful reminder of her commitment to breaking the cycle of hardship and ensuring a better future.Chorus - Anne - Marie, Sean Paul
The chorus returns with its comforting refrain, a melodic embrace that promises protection and love. Anne - Marie and Sean Paul's voices blend seamlessly, creating a harmonious lullaby that resonates with hope and reassurance.Post - Chorus - Sean Paul, Anne - Marie
The post - chorus builds on the theme of resilience. Sean Paul's encouragement to "lift up your head" is a call to remain strong and hopeful. The imagery of angels surrounding the child offers a sense of divine protection, reinforcing the mother's unwavering dedication to her child's well - being.Refrain - Anne - Marie
Anne - Marie's refrain repeats, emphasizing the mother's daily efforts to shield her child from the cold realities of the world. Her love is a constant source of warmth and safety, a beacon of hope in a challenging world.Pre - Chorus - Anne - Marie, Sean Paul
The pre - chorus is once again a heartfelt promise, with the mother vowing to give her child a life filled with love and joy. Her words are a testament to her strength and determination, a promise to do whatever it takes to ensure her child's happiness.Chorus - Anne - Marie, Sean Paul
The chorus closes the song with its soothing lullaby, a final reassurance of love and protection. The repetition of "rockabye" serves as a comforting reminder of the mother's unwavering presence, a promise that her love will always be a shelter for her child.Post - Chorus - Sean Paul, Anne - Marie
The post - chorus concludes with a message of hope and resilience. Sean Paul's encouragement to "lift up your head" is a call to remain strong in the face of adversity. The imagery of angels surrounding the child offers a sense of divine protection, reinforcing the mother's unwavering dedication to her child's well - being.Album : What Is Love? (2017)