KAFINI Lyrics – TIF

KAFINI Lyrics Meaning

[Verse 1 : TIF]
Here, TIF is talking about how he feels different from others because of his background, hinted at by his green passport. He came from struggle and hunger, and that hunger was his motivation when money was nowhere in sight. Now, he’s making music that travels beyond borders, and he’s no longer chasing a regular paycheck. He mentions that even if he’s handling a tough crowd or dangerous environment, he has to move quickly and not get stuck. At first, he just wanted money, but fame came as a side effect. Despite success, he still feels like the same person—just stronger. Even though the money is coming in, it can mess with your soul, leaving you feeling emptier. He points out that betrayal and fake people are always around, but that’s just destiny. He spends money but locks up his feelings, presenting himself as someone others need to feel whole. He’s been through emotional pain, yet he hides it well. Silence can be powerful and say more than words. He reflects on the chaos around him, people dying, and how it’s easy to lose your way in that world. Even if he’s not always doing the right thing, it’s coming from real emotion and life experience.

[Refrain]
Here, he’s saying that the artist life isn’t so bad after all—especially if you’re not bad at it. He’s saying goodbye to the tough times and poor neighborhoods, and he already knows what path he wants to follow. Life hasn’t been easy, and you can see that in the way they live. For him, the feelings inside are already enough; he doesn’t need anything extra. The fire he once had is already out, so there’s no point in trying to add more heat. Emotionally, he’s reached his limit—“kafini li fiya” means “what’s in me is already enough.”

[Verse 2 : ElGrandeToto]
ElGrandeToto is reflecting on the last nine years, saying they’ve been going hard and proving how strong they are. They’ve been hustling nonstop, winning like it’s a game of bingo, and moving across different cities and regions. But with all that movement, they’re still dealing with the pain and loss of people close to them. He talks about how their mothers raised them with respect and discipline, and that foundation is enough—just having mom and dad’s support is all he needs. He makes it clear that just because someone partied with him doesn’t mean they’re his real friend. For him, loyalty is rare; he doesn’t believe in fake friendships. He’s not taking orders from anyone, especially people outside their circle. No one else gets to set their price or tell them how to live or sell their art. What saved them wasn’t luck—it was getting visas and making money. Without rap, they would’ve been lost, probably stuck in the streets trying to survive in any way they could. Music gave them a way out and a future.

[S’il n’y avait pas eu l’rap on serait perdus]
He’s saying that without rap, they would’ve been stuck in their neighborhood, probably selling drügs or hustling just to get by. The Sofitel reference brings up memories of better times or a special person, showing how far he’s come and how life has changed since those early days.

[Refrain]
Once again, he repeats that life as an artist isn’t all bad. If you’re good at it, it can be your escape from hardship. He’s leaving behind the poor areas and already knows what direction to take. Life is tough, and the way they live reflects that. Emotionally, he’s full—he doesn’t need anything more. His inner flame has gone out, and there’s no need to stir things up. What he carries inside is already heavy enough—kafini li fiya.