The song “People” by Libianca explores themes of loneliness, hidden struggles, and the superficiality of relationships. The lyrics depict a sense of isolation and a lack of understanding from others. The artist reflects on the idea that despite putting on a smile and maintaining a façade, people around them do not truly know or understand their inner feelings and the depth of their emotions.
The refrain repeats the question, “Did you check on me? Now, did you notice me?” suggesting a yearning for genuine care and attention from others. The use of alcohol as a coping mechanism further emphasizes the artist’s attempt to escape their emotional turmoil.
In the first verse, Libianca expresses the feeling of being buried inside your own grave, indicating a state of emotional confinement and the struggle to reveal your true self to the world.
The chorus emphasizes the theme of people’s lack of understanding. The repetition of the phrase “They don’t really know you” highlights the artist’s frustration with the superficiality of relationships and the inability of others to truly comprehend their struggles and inner world.
The second verse mentions a desire for understanding from a higher power, represented as the “holy father.” It suggests a plea for guidance and support in navigating the challenges of life. The reference to a “Yahoo girl” is likely a reference to internet fraud, possibly highlighting the artist’s desire for authenticity and genuine connections in contrast to deceitful or superficial interactions. “People” conveys a sense of longing for genuine connection, understanding, and recognition amidst the artist’s personal struggles and the superficiality of relationships in their life.
Watch: Libianca – ‘People’
Listen now: Libianca – ‘People’
Who is Libianca?
Libianca is a Cameroonian-American singer who is best known for her breakout single “People” (2022). The song was inspired by her cyclothymia, a mild form of bipolar disorder. It debuted at No. 2 on the US Billboard Afrobeats chart, at No. 1 in UK Afrobeats chart, peaked at No. 2 in UK Official chart, and received notorious attention on social media. She previously competed in the twenty-first season of American TV show The Voice in 2021.
Libianca was born Libianca Kenzonkinboum Fonji in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 2000 or 2001. She moved to Cameroon with her mother and brother when she was four years old, and returned to the United States when she was 13. She started singing at a young age, and began writing songs when she was in high school.
In 2021, Libianca competed on The Voice, where she was mentored by Blake Shelton. She made it to the top 20 before being eliminated. After The Voice, Libianca signed to 5K Records and Sony Music. She released her debut single “People” in December 2022. The song was a critical and commercial success, and helped Libianca to gain a global following. She has been featured in publications such as BBC News, The Guardian, and OkayAfrica. She was nominated for Best New Artist at the 2023 MOBO Awards.
Libianca is a talented singer and songwriter with a unique sound. She is passionate about using her music to raise awareness about mental health issues. She is an inspiration to many, and her music is sure to touch the lives of many more people in the years to come.
You may also like: