What if a single song could inspire millions of people to reflect on their roles and worth in this society?
Paris Paloma makes every lyric feel like a raw confession of the fight for freedom and self-empowerment. Through both her music and visuals, she transforms this personal pain into a collective voice for those who are pushed down.
Paloma’s song “Labour”, released on March 23, 2023, has been labeled a feminist anthem. It has created a major furor on all types of social media, and many women have been able to share their related stories based on the lyrics of this song.
Some people may think this is just another run-of-the-mill track, thinking it is irrelevant or too dull. However, “Labour” deserves all the attention it has received, and not just because it’s a trending song. Paris Paloma has given voice to all types of negative feelings that women don’t normally say out loud, and her song shines a light on all the common roles that women are expected to play.
“Labour” quickly went viral on TikTok, and it had over 1 million streams on Spotify within twenty-four hours. The music video has over 45 million views on YouTube. Numerous TikTok videos feature women sharing their relatable stories aligned with the lyrics, finally voicing the experiences they faced in situations connected to the song.
In the “Labour” music video, Paris Paloma holds a pomegranate—a fruit that has long been symbolic of feminine power but also oppression. In many cultures, the pomegranate represents fertility, femininity and rebirth, but it also has hints of political oppression. In Greek mythology, Persephone’s consumption of the pomegranate seeds binds her to the underworld, a myth often interpreted as a tale of women’s entrapment.
“Labour” explores the topic of emotional labor and how it is often overlooked and does not receive the attention it deserves. It highlights the burden placed on women in relationships and by society. This is shown when Paloma sings, “All day, every day, therapist, mother, maid, nymph, then a virgin, nurse, then a servant.” So much is expected of women every day, and they are supposed to simply accept these roles without complaint.
Critics have lauded “Labour” as a “fiery feminist anthem” that effectively critiques systemic gender inequality. Beyond its musical impact, “Labour” has gathered a sense of community among listeners, motivating them to speak out about their personal experiences and their struggles with gender dynamics. This song has brought people together, especially those who are seeking to advocate for gender equality and against patriarchal norms.
“Labour” has made millions of people change their point of view with its message that women are expected to serve, endure, and stay quiet, despite the cost to their own freedom. We need to keep highlighting voices that encourage honest conversations about gender, labor, and identity. Change doesn’t always start with a protest, but it can definitely start with a song.
