Ten Times

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of someone grappling with repeated mistakes in a relationship, acknowledging the hurt they've caused. The opening lines, "If only you can see what I see through my eyes," suggest a desire for the other person to understand their perspective, perhaps to forgive or comprehend the internal struggle. This is immediately contrasted with a Yoruba phrase, "Kò sunny l′ọjọni," meaning "it's not sunny today," setting a somber, regretful mood that permeates the track. The central tension lies in the narrator's self-awareness of their wrongdoing, explicitly stating, "I realized that I hurt you like ten times." This admission fuels a desperate plea to salvage the relationship, asking, "Tell me, what do I do with the distance?" The repeated promise, "I give you my word for the last time," underscores a cycle of broken trust, while the phrase "Men will be men but I go try" offers a weak, almost resigned justification for past actions, yet signals a commitment to change. The recurring use of "Jiggy, jiggy, jiggy, jiggy" and the name "Amabelle" throughout the song creates a unique sonic texture. "Jiggy" feels like a nervous tic or a playful, almost dismissive energy that contrasts sharply with the heavy admissions of guilt. "Amabelle," likely a term of endearment, is sung with a mix of longing and perhaps a touch of desperation, serving as an anchor to the person the narrator doesn't want to lose, even as they acknowledge their own failings. This song's effectiveness stems from its raw, unvarnished confession coupled with a distinct sonic identity. The blend of English and Yoruba, the juxtaposition of playful "jiggy" with serious regret, and the direct admission of hurting someone "ten times" all combine to create a relatable, albeit painful, portrait of someone trying to mend a relationship they've repeatedly damaged. It’s the sound of someone aware they’re on thin ice, desperately hoping their promises will finally stick.