Paper Planes - M.I.A. - Paper Planes

“I Fly like Paper, Get High like Planes”

An Ordinary Joe here, with my thoughts on “Paper Planes” the hit song by M.I.A, The UK born Singer/Songwriter/Producer and Visual Artist of Sri Lankan Tamil descent. Mathangi “Maya” Arulpragasam a.k.a. “M.I.A.” released her sophomore album “Kala” in August 2007. The album’s third single “Paper Planes” had some success, but it has been brought back into the spotlight thanks to its play in the trailer for the new stoner comedy “Pineapple Express”.

The song which has been covered by Rihanna is not for the faint at heart with talks of selling weed, the tune of gunshots and lines like “Some I murder, some I let go”. The song also carries tales of M.I.A’s troubles getting a visa. Because of this most of her album was not recorded in the US; however “Paper Planes” was recorded in Bedstuy, Brooklyn. “Paper Planes” has rocketed to the #6 position on the Billboard Hot 100 and was labeled the “Sales Gainer” last week. M.I.A’s talent, unique style and originality truly define her music, which serves as a warp back to a tough youth and a regular ole' “Fugees” right of passage (tell me you know who the 'Fugees' are).

There has been controversy over whether or not the song has terrorist connotations. Mathangi’s father who was known as Arular (title of her first album) was a founding member of a Sri Lankan Tamil Militant Group called EROS which has been associated with the LTTE in the past. The LTTE has been classified as a terrorist organization by a number of countries. Their symbol is the tiger, which allegedly appears in the video at some point. It seems the movie and song have affected some more than others because, according to TMZ.com co-star of the movie “Pineapple Express” Craig Robinson has been charged with three (3) felony drug counts.

Here's the Video...