MARIO Lyrics in English by Maes

Balafres translates to "scars" or "gashes". It's a striking and somewhat intense word that isn't commonly found in everyday French songs, making it memorable.

In the context of the song, the line "Ce qui ne tue pas t'laisse des balafres" (What doesn't kill you leaves you scars) is a direct reference to the harsh realities of street life. It powerfully conveys the lasting impact of difficult experiences, highlighting the resilience and toughness required to survive in that environment.

Maes's "MARIO" is a gritty journey through the life of an artist who's come a long way from his humble beginnings. He starts by recalling his past, at "11h45 sur le R, j'commençais avec un 22 de hash" [11:45 on the RER, I started with 22 grams of hash], highlighting a life where survival meant navigating dangerous situations and untrustworthy people. He makes it clear he's not like others, stating, "Ils manient mal le fer / Comment vous pouvez imaginer / Qu'j'suis comme vous?" [They handle the iron badly / How can you imagine / That I'm like you?].

This song is all about Maes's transformation and his rise above the street life. He contrasts his past, leaving "en éco, j'décolle de Roissy" [in economy, I take off from Roissy], with his present success, returning "en jet par le Bourget" [by jet via Le Bourget]. The