Talibans

Album: No Love (2023)
Charted: 12 99
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Born in Jamaica but transplanted to the enchanting shores of St. Kitts and Nevis at two months old, Byron Messia has called the latter his home ever since. It wasn't the deep-rooted connection to his birthplace that propelled him towards his destiny as a Dancehall artist, but the relentless influence of his high school comrades. These friends, known for their after-school ritual of blasting Masicka through their Bluetooth speakers, ignited a fire within Byron that would shape his musical journey.

    On January 20, 2023, he released the explosive track "Talibans," crafted under the production of Ztekk Records and Ej Fya. Its infectious beats and electrifying energy resonated far beyond borders, earning Messia a multi-album deal with the major US-based label Interscope Records.
  • In a raw and unapologetic manner, Messia delves into actions others may deem questionable or violent. United under the banner of the Talibans, he and his friends fearlessly navigate their path, unyielding in the face of adversaries. Their message is clear: Do not provoke them, for they do not merely aim to incapacitate, but to eliminate. The chorus reverberates with an unwavering toughness and a resolve that refuses to retreat from any confrontation.
  • Asked by Dash Radio host Maiwand about the meaning behind the track, Messia said it serves as a warning, not an endorsement of criminal activities. "It's not a crime organization song," he explained, "it's more like telling somebody 'If you want, we can get down like how di people dem in Afghanistan get down' song."

    Although Messia attempts to soften the track's intent with his chosen words, it more accurately aligns with a typical badman anthem.
  • Directed by Ty Lott and Neatz Films, the music video goes beyond mere cautionary words. Guns emerge and a simulated murder unfolds, intensifying the gripping narrative as the track reaches its climax. There is also a cameo from the Jamaican singer-songwriter Jada Kingdom. Her presence is more than a passing nod, for she is directly referenced in the song's second verse, where the line "AK shake like a Jada Kingdom" pays homage to her.
  • Burna Boy jumped on a remixed version titled "Talibans II", which Messia dropped on July 21, 2023. Following the release of the new rendition, the song climbed into the UK Top 20 and entered the Hot 100.

Comments: 1

  • AnonymousI can relate...if I understand the lyrics accurately. I was adopted,...got into a lot of trouble. I learned how to read music...I still managed to get locked up in the Continental U.S. on EVERY COAST. I'm 54 years old now..there's a country song called "I ain't a BITCH til ya make me one"
    That's me. Sir Byron, you're a wonderful artist !
see more comments

Editor's Picks

70s Music Quiz 1

70s Music Quiz 1Music Quiz

The '70s gave us Muppets, disco and Van Halen, all which show up in this groovy quiz.

Bill Withers

Bill WithersSongwriter Interviews

Soul music legend Bill Withers on how life experience and the company you keep leads to classic songs like "Lean On Me."

Evolution Of The Prince Symbol

Evolution Of The Prince SymbolSong Writing

The evolution of the symbol that was Prince's name from 1993-2000.

Lajon Witherspoon of Sevendust

Lajon Witherspoon of SevendustSongwriter Interviews

The Sevendust frontman talks about the group's songwriting process, and how trips to the Murder Bar helped forge their latest album.

Jackie DeShannon - "Put a Little Love in Your Heart"

Jackie DeShannon - "Put a Little Love in Your Heart"They're Playing My Song

It wasn't her biggest hit as a songwriter (that would be "Bette Davis Eyes"), but "Put a Little Love in Your Heart" had a family connection for Jackie.

Jay, Peaches, Spinderella and other Darrining Victims

Jay, Peaches, Spinderella and other Darrining VictimsSong Writing

Just like Darrin was replaced on Bewitched, groups have swapped out original members, hoping we wouldn't notice.