Etana's song "Melanin" celebrates and uplifts black beauty, specifically focusing on the beauty and strength of dark skin. The lyrics emphasize the importance of recognizing and embracing one's melanin, which refers to the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye color. The song begins by affirming the beauty and power of blackness, highlighting that it is unique and cannot be replicated. Etana sings about the richness and sweetness of dark skin, metaphorically comparing it to the juice of a blackberry. She acknowledges the historical significance of black mothers giving birth to all humanity and asserts her worth and value. Etana then emphasizes the truth of black beauty, stating that it does not need validation or proof. She encourages black individuals to acknowledge their regal ancestry by looking in the mirror and affirming their worth and beauty. The repetition of "my melanin" in the chorus serves as a declaration of pride and ownership of one's blackness. The song also addresses the importance of sharing and protecting this beauty for future generations. Etana wants her daughters and all black children to recognize their own beauty, using the term "shea butter babies" to describe their soft and nurtured skin. She asserts that no one can take away or diminish the value of their melanin. Etana further expresses her pride and love for being black and dedicates the song to her black people. She emphasizes unity and strength, suggesting that by standing together, they can overcome any challenges they face. The lyrics include Swahili phrases, such as "Tunaweza" (we can), "Kwapamoja" (together), and "Shikamana" (hold on), promoting unity and resilience. In summary, "Melanin" is a powerful anthem that celebrates black beauty, emphasizes the strength and uniqueness of dark skin, and encourages black individuals to embrace their melanin with pride. Etana aims to inspire self-love, unity, and resilience within the black community.
