“Informer” by Snow is a quintessential 90s reggae fusion track that exploded onto the global music scene, instantly recognizable for its infectious rhythm and Snow’s distinctive vocal style. Released in 1992, the song topped charts worldwide, becoming a cultural phenomenon and solidifying its place in music history. But beyond the catchy “licky boom boom down,” what are the Informer Song Lyrics truly about, and why do they continue to resonate with listeners today? Let’s delve into the lyrical content of “Informer” to understand its story and lasting impact.
The Lyrics of “Informer”: A Narrative of Injustice
At its core, “Informer” tells a story of wrongful accusation and police harassment from the perspective of Daddy Snow. The repeated lines, “Informer, you no say Daddy me Snow me I’ll go blame, A licky Boom Boom Down,” immediately establish the central theme: Snow’s denial of being an informant and his frustration with being targeted by law enforcement.
The verses paint a vivid picture of police intrusion and mistreatment:
Police them come an’ now they blow down me door,
One him come crawl through, through my window,
So then they put me in the back the car at the station,
From that point on me reach my destination,
When the destination reached, it was the east detention, where them
Whipped down me pants, looked up me bottom, so
These lines depict a forceful and disrespectful police raid, highlighting the feeling of violation and injustice experienced by Snow. He’s taken to the station, subjected to humiliating searches, all based on suspicion and without clear evidence.
The lyrics further emphasize the power imbalance and the feeling of being targeted:
Bigger they are they think they have more power,
They’re on the phone me say that on (every) hour,
Me for want to use it once an’ now me call me lover,
Lover who I’ll be callin is the one TAMMY, an’ me love her in me heart down to my belly,
This verse subtly touches on the constant surveillance and the disruption it causes to everyday life. Even a simple act like calling his lover Tammy is juxtaposed with the overbearing presence of the police. He asserts his identity and love for Tammy as a form of resistance against the oppressive atmosphere.
“A Licky Boom Boom Down”: The Catchphrase Heard Around the World
The iconic phrase “A licky Boom Boom Down” is more than just a catchy hook. While its literal meaning is open to interpretation and adds to the song’s playful and somewhat enigmatic nature, within the context of the informer song lyrics, it acts as a rhythmic punctuation and a declaration of Snow’s stance. It’s a sonic signature, a defiant exclamation that punctuates his denial and frustration.
Refusal to Inform: A Core Message
The repeated refusal to be an “informer” is the central pillar of the song’s message. In street culture, being labeled an “informer” or “snitch” carries severe negative connotations. Snow’s repeated denial is not just about avoiding blame for a specific crime (“stab someone down the lane”), but also about upholding a code of silence and loyalty within his community.
The later verses further solidify this stance and hint at the reason for police attention:
Why would he?
Me sittin’ ’round cool with my dibbie dibbie girl,
Police knock my door, Lick up my pal,
Rough me up an’ I can’t do a thing
Pick up my line, when my telephone ring.
Take me to the station, Black up my hands.
Trail me down, ‘cuz I’m hangin’ with the Snowman,
What I’m gonna do, I’m backed an’ I’m trapped,
Slap me in the face an’ took all o’ my gap.
They have no clues an’ they wanna get warmer,
But Shan won’t turn Informer!
Here, Snow clarifies that he is being targeted simply for “hangin’ with the Snowman,” possibly a reference to a person of interest to the police. Despite the pressure and mistreatment, he and “Shan” (possibly MC Shan, who is mentioned earlier in the song) remain resolute in their refusal to cooperate with law enforcement, upholding a code of silence.
Enduring Appeal and Cultural Impact
“Informer” resonated globally not just because of its infectious beat, but also due to its relatable themes of standing up against injustice and staying true to one’s principles. The informer song lyrics, delivered in Snow’s unique Jamaican Patois-influenced style, told a story that transcended geographical boundaries. The song’s success helped popularize reggae fusion and introduced a wider audience to Jamaican musical styles.
Even decades later, “Informer” remains a recognizable and enjoyable track. Its story of defiance and its unforgettable chorus continue to capture the attention of new listeners, ensuring its legacy as a defining song of the 90s and a testament to the power of music to convey social commentary within a catchy and engaging format.
