Nine Out Of Ten

Caetano Veloso's song "Nine Out Of Ten" is a vibrant exploration of life, mortality, and the cultural landscape of the 1970s. The song opens with Veloso walking down Portobello Road, a famous street in London known for its market and diverse cultural influences, to the sound of reggae. This setting immediately situates the listener in a lively, multicultural environment, reflecting Veloso's own experiences as a Brazilian artist in exile during a politically tumultuous time in his home country. The repetition of the phrase "I'm alive" underscores a celebration of life, even amidst the awareness of its inevitable end.

The lyrics juxtapose the 'age of gold' with the 'age of old,' suggesting a nostalgic reflection on the past and a recognition that the golden era of music has passed. This could be interpreted as Veloso's commentary on the changing music scene and the transient nature of cultural moments. The mention of hearing people talk about the 'final blast' adds a layer of existential dread, hinting at the political unrest and the looming threat of violence that characterized the era.

Veloso's repeated acknowledgment of his mortality—"I know that one day I must die"—is a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of life. Yet, this acknowledgment is paired with a vibrant affirmation of his existence, as he feels the music 'banging in his belly.' The line "Nine out of ten movie stars make me cry" can be seen as a critique of the superficiality and emotional impact of celebrity culture. It suggests a disillusionment with the glamorized portrayals of life in movies, contrasting sharply with the raw, lived experience of walking down Portobello Road and feeling alive.

"Nine Out Of Ten" is a rich tapestry of cultural references, personal reflections, and existential musings. Veloso masterfully blends his Brazilian roots with the influences of his temporary home in London, creating a song that resonates with universal themes of life, death, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world.