Analysis

Paper Planes

M.I.A. · Kala

16+
Verdict
Not for kids

Gun sounds, robbery, drug references, criminal themes

Detailed Analysis

These lyrics from M.I.A.'s 'Paper Planes' contain several mature themes that make them unsuitable for younger audiences. The song includes explicit drug references ('weed and bongs'), references to criminal activity including document fraud ('visas in my name,' implying forgery), hustling, and use of prepaid 'burner' phones commonly associated with illegal activity. The line 'Already going to hell, just pumping that gas' glorifies reckless behavior. Most notably, the recurring chorus references gunshots and robbery ('All I wanna do is [gunshots] and take your money'), directly depicting violent theft. The line 'Some I murder, some I let go' contains an explicit reference to killing. References to being a 'bona fide hustler,' 'lethal poison for the system,' and running from confrontations paint a picture of glorified criminal lifestyle. While there is no explicit sexual content or profanity, the combination of drug use, implied document fraud, robbery, murder references, and general glorification of criminal activity warrants a mature content rating.

Themes

violence

crime

drug references

robbery

immigration

hustling

Read more about this analysis and how we do it »

Lyrics

Remember: You know your child best. Use LyricsRay as a tool to inform your decisions, but always trust your parental instincts and family values when determining what's right for your children.
Did this analysis help you?

If so, consider supporting the project to cover some of the development and hosting costs ❤️

Analyze Another SongLearn More
Analysis performed on May 20, 2026