Moldova

Dragostea din tei

About love, separation, and the joy of retrieving fond memories

What is the song about? What does the song mean?

“Dragostea din tei” is a 2004 summer hit by Moldovan band O-Zone. The title means something like “love of the linden trees”. The song is about a telephone conversation in which the singer, who refers to himself as a “haiduc,” a heroic outlaw or freedom fighter in Romanian folklore, expresses his feelings of love and longing. Despite the upbeat melody, the lyrics are about love, separation, and the joy of retrieving fond memories.

Why is the song so loved and well known in Moldavia?

The catchy chorus has emphatically contributed to its popularity and brought Moldovan pop music global recognition. The song evokes early-2000s nostalgia and serves as a cheerful cultural symbol that remains popular at parties and events.

Sheet music