Song meaning of 2003 by Liaze & equal

The song "2003" by Liaze & equal is a poignant reflection on the artist's childhood and the struggles they faced growing up. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a time when life was simpler, yet filled with hardships. The song opens with a spoken word intro by Vasily Livanov, setting the nostalgic tone.

In the first verse, Liaze reminisces about a time when there was a special dish for each day of the week, and despite the challenges, they found joy in those moments. As the years passed, the artist's circumstances changed, and they dreamed of a better life. The lyrics cleverly depict the transformation of their surroundings, from a room to a backyard, and from candies to cigarettes. Liaze also touches upon their experience as a Russian person in a foreign land, feeling both alienated and too German for their fellow Russians.

The pre-hook and chorus of the song emphasize the artist's humble upbringing and the lasting impact it has had on them. They were one of three children, living without heating in their room, but they reassure the listener that it wasn't as bad as it sounds because they were still young. The mention of the year 2003 and the flickering black and white television serve as powerful symbols of a time that will forever remain within them.

In the second verse, Liaze reflects on the things they never had as a child, seeing them in shop windows, and their grandfather's last tenner being their only source of money. The lyrics also touch upon the difficulty of learning a new language and being the quiet kid on school trips. The artist then contrasts their past with the present, standing under a camera crane, symbolizing the ups and downs of life.

The song's outro brings back Vasily Livanov's spoken word, adding a touch of melancholy to the overall atmosphere. The repetition of "la-la-la" creates a haunting and reflective ending to the song.

Overall, "2003" by Liaze & equal is a deeply personal and introspective track that explores themes of nostalgia, struggle, and resilience. It serves as a reminder of the artist's roots and the impact their upbringing has had on their identity.