Negros

Adriana Calcanhotto's song 'Negros' delves into the complex interplay of race, identity, and cultural dynamics in Brazil. The lyrics juxtapose the experiences and characteristics of black and white people, highlighting both the physical and metaphorical contrasts. The sun and rain serve as natural elements that affect everyone, yet the outcomes and perceptions differ based on race. The sun's ability to 'desbota as cores' (fade colors) and 'dá cor aos negros' (give color to blacks) symbolizes the duality of visibility and invisibility experienced by black individuals in society.

The song also addresses the cultural appropriation and influence of black culture on white culture. Lines like 'A música dos brancos é negra' (The music of the whites is black) emphasize how deeply black culture has permeated and enriched Brazilian culture, despite the systemic inequalities that persist. The imagery of 'os negros na cozinha' (blacks in the kitchen) and 'os brancos na sala' (whites in the living room) starkly portrays the historical and ongoing segregation and social stratification.

Calcanhotto's lyrics further explore the emotional and psychological dimensions of race. The repeated assertion that 'os negros são só negros' (blacks are just blacks) and 'os brancos são só brancos' (whites are just whites) underscores the reductive labels society imposes. Yet, the song also acknowledges the shared humanity and desires that transcend these superficial distinctions. The closing line, 'Lanço o meu olhar sobre o Brasil e não entendo nada' (I cast my gaze over Brazil and understand nothing), encapsulates the bewilderment and frustration with the persistent racial complexities and injustices in Brazilian society.