Teni ‘No Days Off’ Lyrics Meaning Explained

Looking to understand the meaning behind Teni’s “No Days Off” lyrics?

Nigerian artist Teni recently dropped her much-anticipated single “No Days Off,” a track that continues to showcase her exceptional talent and unique style. But what is the song really about?

Here’s a line-by-line breakdown of the lyrics to help you understand the meaning behind “No Days Off.”

Lyrics Breakdown

[Intro]

Genio, where you at my nigga?

This line is a shout-out to the song’s producer, Genio. It’s a common practice in the music industry to acknowledge the producer at the beginning of the track.

[Chorus]

Ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay o
Ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay o
Ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay o
I’ve been shooting hoops on the court with no days off
And you know I put my life on the line and it paid off
Just imagine if I didn’t Atlanta for Lagos
Tobi, Bunmi, Brenda and Wale, that’s my day ones

The chorus of “No Days Off” reflects Teni’s relentless hustle and hard work. “Shooting hoops on the court with no days off” is a metaphor for her consistent efforts in her music career. The line “Just imagine if I didn’t Atlanta for Lagos” refers to her transition from Atlanta to Lagos, a move that significantly influenced her music. The names mentioned at the end are likely her close friends or family who have been with her since the beginning – her “day ones.”

[Verse 1]

Dọdọdọ, dọdọdọ
I no be dọdọdọ
Jẹ ki n gbe ẹ wọ kọrọ
Shey I look like bọlọ
I no be bọlọ
Say na falala, falala, falala
If you hold me falala
Dem go beat you falala, ye
Pay me my money
Pay me my dough
Is you my friend? or is you my foe?
Bitch ass nigga wanna talk about shit they don’t know (Shut up)
I’m ’bout that life
Is you about that life?
Oya come outside if you about that life
Gọngọ aṣọ
Gọngọ aṣọ, ah

In the first verse, Teni switches between English and Yoruba, reflecting her Nigerian roots. The verse has a strong assertive tone, establishing her as someone who isn’t afraid to stand her ground. The lines “Pay me my money, Pay me my dough” underline the importance she places on her worth and getting what she is due. The question “Is you my friend? or is you my foe?” reflects her awareness of the uncertainty in relationships in the music industry.

Bridge

Mo ti lọ
Mo lọ mọ wọn lọwọ
Wọn binu
Wọn binu ori mi
Mo ti lọ
Mo lọ mọ wọn lọwọ
Wọn binu
Wọn binu ori mi, eh

The bridge is in Yoruba, a language widely spoken in Nigeria. The lyrics translate to: “I have gone. I’ve left them. They’re angry. They’re angry at me.” These lines indicate a sense of moving forward, possibly from past relationships or circumstances that were holding her back.

Verse 2

Ẹyin hater (Hater)
Abọwaba lọrọ yin oh
Ẹyin hater
Shooting like I’m Kobe with the Lakers
Ọmọpe gbọpẹI’m all about my paper
My paper
All of my guys
Dem fit die, dem fit die for me
All of my guys
Dem love me, dem love me for real
Mo korin de lu Moscow
Superstory
Iyẹn ti n ba de
E too sure for me, yea, yea

I’m all about my paper
My paper
All of my guys
Dem fit die, dem fit die for me
All of my guys
Dem love me, dem love me for real
Mo korin de lu Moscow
Superstory
Iyẹn ti n ba de
E too sure for me, yea, yea

In the second verse, Teni continues to assert herself, addressing her detractors directly with “Ẹyin hater (Hater)”. The line “Shooting like I’m Kobe with the Lakers” is a strong metaphor that reinforces the theme of determination and hard work – Kobe Bryant was known for his tireless work ethic. The phrase “I’m all about my paper” suggests that she is focused on her career and success.

Teni also takes a moment to appreciate her loyal friends who are willing to go to great lengths for her, underlining the importance of a supportive network in her journey. The reference to Moscow could imply her music’s global reach. Finally, the line “E too sure for me, yea, yea” demonstrates her self-assuredness and confidence in her path

[Outro]

Ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay o
Ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay, ay o
I’ve been shooting hoops
(Motherfucker, will you come on play that shit back)

In the outro, Teni reiterates the song’s core message of relentless effort and echoes the chorus. The final line, “(Motherfucker, will you come on play that shit back)” shows her boldness and confidence in her work. She’s daring, unapologetic, and sure of the quality of her music.

Interpretation

“No Days Off” is a powerful anthem that encapsulates Teni’s dedication to her craft and her journey in the music industry. The lyrics reveal her unwavering commitment, her assertiveness, and her ability to overcome challenges. The song serves as an inspirational message to her fans to remain focused on their goals, work hard, and never give up, no matter the obstacles they face.

The use of Yoruba language in the song is also significant. It not only reflects Teni’s Nigerian heritage but also adds depth and authenticity to the track, connecting her with her roots and her audience at a deeper level.

In conclusion, “No Days Off” isn’t just a song. It’s a testament to Teni’s journey as an artist, her character, and her dedication to her craft. Through her well-crafted lyrics, she inspires listeners to persevere in their own lives, making this track a powerful anthem for hard work, determination, and resilience.