Inspiraystonner’s song, “Elder (Pick My Call),” is a powerful and reflective piece that touches on themes of perseverance, faith, patience, and the inevitable reality of growing older. The song’s depth is captured through its thought-provoking lyrics, blending personal experiences with broader societal struggles. As with much of his work, Elder (Pick My Call) feels both deeply personal and universal, making it relatable to listeners across different walks of life.

In this breakdown and review, we’ll take a closer look at the song’s key themes, lyrical depth, and how Inspiraystonner communicates his message through poignant word choices.

Verse 1: Patience and Faith in Adversity

The song begins with the lines:

“March on, fear not the storms (fear not the storms), Patiently waiting my turn (patiently waiting my turn).”

Here, Inspiraystonner speaks of the importance of patience in life. “March on” signals resilience in the face of challenges, while “fear not the storms” suggests a willingness to keep moving forward despite adversities. Storms, a common metaphor for life’s difficulties, are something that the artist encourages himself (and the listener) to face without fear.

The line “patiently waiting my turn” speaks to the struggle of waiting for one’s moment or breakthrough. It’s a relatable feeling in today’s fast-paced world where success can seem slow to come by. This patience, however, is rooted in faith and a belief that one’s turn will eventually come.

Verse 2: The Role of Faith

“I go still get sit, even if table turn (even if table turn), No ask me how, even if e later sup (even if e later sup).”

Inspiraystonner reflects on maintaining a sense of security and faith despite the uncertainty of life. The imagery of the “table turning” evokes a sense of sudden changes, where what was once in reach might shift out of sight. Yet, the artist asserts that he will still “get sit” (i.e., retain his place) no matter what, showcasing a profound belief in divine protection and destiny.

The following lines continue to express the importance of faith:

“They said, go where you get value, So me I ran to God (so me I ran to God).”

Inspiraystonner introduces the idea that one’s value is recognized in places where they are appreciated, and for him, this is through his relationship with God. His decision to “run to God” symbolizes seeking refuge in faith when everything else seems uncertain. By describing God as his “adaptor” and himself as the “cord,” he portrays the idea that God is the source of power and strength, while he (the cord) can only function through that connection.

Chorus: Time and Urgency

The chorus of the song emphasizes the urgency Inspiraystonner feels as he grows older:

“I don dey turn elder, Baba, bawo loshe ma je sir? Na sooner I want, motin ko letter, Do it now, sometime, later become never.”

In these lines, the phrase “I don dey turn elder” reveals the artist’s reflection on aging. He addresses “Baba” (a respectful Yoruba term for an elder or father figure, possibly referring to God), asking for guidance on how to navigate this stage of his life: “bawo loshe ma je sir?” (How do I proceed, sir?). There is a sense of impatience in the line “na sooner I want, motin ko letter” (I want it sooner; I’ve written my letter), signifying that he desires quick action and is tired of waiting.

The final line of the chorus, “Do it now, sometime, later become never,” highlights the anxiety that accompanies procrastination and waiting too long to act. It’s a strong reminder that opportunities might slip away if not seized in the moment.

Verse 3: Lessons Learned and Determination

In the next verse, Inspiraystonner reflects on past mistakes and the lessons he’s learned from them:

“I made mistake, learn from my lesson (learn from my lesson), Put regret for pending (pending).”

He acknowledges that mistakes are part of life, but he emphasizes growth through these experiences. Instead of being bogged down by regret, he places it “pending,” suggesting that while he may carry regret, it doesn’t define or control him.

The line “lace my shoe, I’m ready” shows a readiness to move forward. The metaphor of lacing shoes implies preparation for a journey, whether it’s personal growth, a career move, or spiritual enlightenment.

The verse continues with an affirmation of self-worth and ambition:

“I no fit settle for last (I no fit settle for last), For my side, we no dey relax (ah, we no dey relax).”

Here, he rejects mediocrity and refuses to “settle for last.” This statement is further emphasized by his assertion that his community does not rest or become complacent in their efforts. This focus on hard work and drive is a common theme in Afrobeat and hip-hop, where success is often portrayed as a result of relentless hustle.

Verse 4: The Pursuit of Financial Stability

“No slack, na money we dey find (na money I dey find), Pray to Jah, make my P no go last (make my P no go last).”

In these lines, Inspiraystonner speaks about the pursuit of financial stability, something that resonates deeply with listeners across different backgrounds. “P” is a slang term for money, and the line “make my P no go last” conveys his prayer that his financial efforts do not run dry or fade away.

Again, the theme of faith is present as he prays to Jah (a reference to God), hoping for sustained prosperity and security.

A Plea for Divine Intervention

The song ends with a return to the central theme of seeking divine intervention:

“No decline my call, jowo pick my call (pick my call).”

This closing plea emphasizes Inspiraystonner’s desire for his prayers to be answered. It’s a humble request for acknowledgment and assistance from God, encapsulating the vulnerability and hope that drives the entire song.

Final Thoughts

Elder (Pick My Call) is a soulful and introspective track that blends elements of spirituality, personal growth, and ambition. Inspiraystonner’s lyrics offer a relatable message to anyone who has ever felt the weight of time or the pressures of waiting for success. The song is a call to action, urging listeners not to let life pass them by while reminding them that divine guidance is ever-present, even when the journey feels long and difficult.