Moko

[Verse 1]

This language is visual

Language of our blood

Speaks levels

Without any words

Handed down

By our forefathers

To give us a glimpse

Of who we really are

[Chorus]

I'm talking about moko

Tā moko

I'm talking about moko

This ain't no tattoo

Etched into our skin

And found deep within

We wear our pride on the outside

And walk with our tūpuna side by side

[Verse 2]

It's lost on our youth

There's no respect

I'm witnessing the death of our culture

This generation's fibre is being destroyed

Not going for looks

It's deeper than the skin

I just want to carry my whakapapa

No matter what country I'm in

[Chorus]

I'm talking about moko

Tā moko

I'm talking about moko

This ain't no tattoo

Etched into our skin

And found deep within

We wear our pride on the outside

And walk with our tūpuna side by side

[Bridge]

Oh oh moko got soul

Oh oh I'll always be home

Always be home

Oh oh moko got soul

Oh oh I'll always be home

Always be home

[Verse 3]

Tell the machine what to do

The chisel controls you

The tools of our ancestors

Here to carve a new you

A lot of our being

Is dying with our elders

Things need to change

If we're to return to a golden age

[Chorus]

I'm talking about moko

Tā moko

I'm talking about moko

This ain't no tattoo

Etched into our skin

And found deep within

We wear our pride on the outside

And walk with our tūpuna side by side