Reggae rock

Song Meaning

Nek's "ANGSTANGST" isn't a lament but a spirited, almost childlike, recounting of artistic awakening. The lyrics, sung in Italian, trace the artist's trajectory from a young boy of nine, dreaming of a future reality, to a musician finding his voice. The song isn't about angst in the modern sense, but perhaps a youthful 'angst' or eagerness to discover his true artistic path. The early infatuation with music, the pivotal moment of performing country music as a duo, and the subsequent drive fueled by early success—all these elements paint a picture of a nascent passion taking root. The repetition of "Reggae rock, Reggae rock, Reggae rock / Io lo sentivo" (I felt it) acts as a mantra, an affirmation of artistic instinct. It signifies a turning point, a decisive shift away from country songs toward a genre that resonated more deeply within him, inspired by The Police. The lyrics suggest the artist's journey is less about external validation and more about internal alignment. The shift away from "country songs" wasn't necessarily about commercial appeal; rather, it was a personal imperative, "l'inizio di un futuro che / O meglio, in cui credo ancora" (the beginning of a future that / Or rather, in which I still believe). This unwavering belief in his chosen path, even as time passes ("Poi piano piano il tempo / Passò con la sua scia"), is a central theme. The song highlights the power of music not just as a form of expression but as a source of personal vision and direction. Ultimately, "ANGSTANGST" is a celebration of artistic identity formation. The repeated assertion that "Ora la musica è parte di me / E mi farà sognare" (Now the music is part of me / And it will make me dream) underscores the transformative power of music. It's not just a career or a hobby; it's an integral part of who he is, a source of continued inspiration and aspiration. Nek isn't dwelling on past struggles but rather emphasizing the enduring and dream-inducing influence of music on his life. The song serves as a testament to the idea that artistic passion, once ignited, can continue to shape and define one's existence.