Camarão Que Dorme a Onda Leva (feat. Zeca Pagodinho)

The song "Camarão Que Dorme a Onda Leva" by Beth Carvalho, featuring Zeca Pagodinho, is a classic example of Brazilian samba that conveys a message about vigilance in love and the consequences of taking someone for granted. The title itself is a popular Brazilian saying which translates to "the shrimp that sleeps is carried away by the wave," suggesting that complacency can lead to loss. This proverbial wisdom is used metaphorically to caution a lover not to be negligent with the singer's heart.

Beth Carvalho, known as the 'Godmother of Samba,' often includes themes of love, resilience, and everyday life in her music. In this song, she warns her partner not to treat her heart lightly or to underestimate her emotions. The repeated lines "Hoje é o dia da caça, amanhã do caçador" ("Today is the day of the hunt, tomorrow of the hunter") serve as a reminder that roles can reverse and that the one who is comfortable today may find themselves vulnerable tomorrow. This line emphasizes the dynamic nature of relationships and the importance of mutual respect and care.

The lyrics also contain another Brazilian saying, "A pedra é muito forte, mas tem um porém, meu bem, a água tanto bate até que fura" ("The stone is very strong, but there's a catch, my dear, the water beats until it pierces through"). This suggests that even the strongest of barriers can be worn down with persistence, paralleling the idea that even a strong heart can be hurt if taken for granted repeatedly. The song is a blend of cultural wisdom and personal sentiment, using traditional sayings to convey a deeper message about love and respect.