COMME BENZE (part. La2s)
WIXO
The Grit and Glory of Urban Survival
WIXO's "COMME BENZE" featuring La2s is a raw and intense exploration of urban life, filled with vivid imagery and streetwise metaphors. The song's title references Karim Benzema, a renowned French footballer known for his skill and resilience, suggesting that the artist sees himself as a similarly formidable figure in his own environment. The lyrics paint a picture of a gritty, high-stakes world where survival requires both mental and physical strength.
The song delves into themes of ambition and the relentless pursuit of wealth, with the artist expressing a desire for more money than the previous day. This drive is juxtaposed with the dangers and consequences of street life, such as incarceration and violence. The mention of "fusils d'assaut" (assault rifles) and "faux pas" (missteps) highlights the precarious nature of this existence, where one wrong move can have dire consequences. The artist's determination to rise above these challenges is evident, as he navigates through "quêtes" (quests) and avoids punitive expeditions.
Cultural references and street slang are woven throughout the lyrics, reflecting the artist's connection to his roots and the community he represents. The song captures the essence of a generation shaped by adversity, where instincts and street smarts are crucial for survival. The repeated refrain of being "en pétard" (angry or fired up) underscores the artist's defiance and resilience in the face of obstacles, embodying the spirit of those who refuse to be defeated by their circumstances.