Looking Back

Album: Not Waving, But Drowning (2019)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Loyle Carner's father is of Guyanese descent and his mother is of Scottish heritage. This song finds the rapper investigating his mixed-race background.

    Being black and white
    I grabbed it with both hands
    I'm thinking that my great-grandfather could have owned my other one
    I'm lost
    Wondering my cost


    After Carner's parents separated. he had minimal contact with his father for many years, but during the recording of Not Waving, But Drowning, he talking to him more. The MC told The Observer that their conversations has made him realize, "Actually, yeah, I do have a black history and I need to talk about it.'"

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Francesca Battistelli

Francesca BattistelliSongwriter Interviews

The 2011 Artist of the Year at the Dove Awards isn't your typical gospel diva, and she thinks that's a good thing.

Johnette Napolitano of Concrete Blonde

Johnette Napolitano of Concrete BlondeSongwriter Interviews

The singer/bassist for Concrete Blonde talks about how her songs come from clairvoyance, and takes us through the making of their hit "Joey."

Danny Clinch: The Art of Rock Photography

Danny Clinch: The Art of Rock PhotographySong Writing

One of rock's top photographers talks about artistry in photography, raising funds for a documentary, and enjoying a County Fair with Tom Waits.

Richie Wise (Kiss producer, Dust)

Richie Wise (Kiss producer, Dust)Songwriter Interviews

Richie talks about producing the first two Kiss albums, recording "Brother Louie," and the newfound appreciation of his rock band, Dust.

Rob Halford of Judas Priest

Rob Halford of Judas PriestSongwriter Interviews

Rob Halford dives into some of his Judas Priest lyrics, talking about his most personal songs and the message behind "You've Got Another Thing Comin'."

Gavin Rossdale of Bush

Gavin Rossdale of BushSongwriter Interviews

On the "schizoid element" of his lyrics, and a famous line from "Everything Zen."