"À la Carte" by MADE, SHABAB, and Rasa offers a profound exploration of survival, resilience, and ambition amidst challenging life circumstances. Released in 2023, this song stands as a striking testament to the artists' journey through life's darker paths, marked by illegal activities and constrained opportunities.
The song commences with Rasa depicting the streets as "illegal, egal," portraying himself and his peers as "Niños de la calle" (children of the street), yearning for a brighter future. His references to marijuana and carrying illicit goods symbolize a rebellious stance against authority, while alluding to the footballer Camavinga to represent their aspirations of rising from obscurity to prominence.
In the second verse, Shabab engages his friend with "Frèro," signifying their shared tenacity akin to tigers. He reflects on the hurdles encountered en route to success, drawing parallels with the endurance of pythons and rats. The phrase "Haben uns verloren wegen Ta7shish, Maria" hints at losing oneself to drug influences and life's struggles.
The pre-hook by Rasa delves into the loss of liberty and life's dramatic turns, apologizing to his mother for the hardships endured and morphing into an "Assasin," a metaphor for his toughened persona.
Shabab's hook underscores a paradigm shift in their outlook, opting to live life "à la carte," rejecting a predestined existence. This part of the song reflects on their past decline and societal suspicion, yet triumphantly defying expectations.
In the third verse, Shabab contrasts a woman's material aspirations with their own dire struggles, articulating his inner void and remorse towards his mother.
Concluding the song, Rasa assures his resolve to persevere regardless of the obstacles, including facing physical harm and police scrutiny, acknowledging life's weariness and his mother's cautions.
In essence, "À la Carte" is a poignant narrative of the artists' relentless quest for a better existence, despite formidable challenges. It vividly captures their grit, defiance, and quest to transcend their limitations, rendering it a compelling and resonant musical piece.
