Sempre Que Lisboa Canta

Carlos Ramos' song "Sempre Que Lisboa Canta" is a heartfelt tribute to the city of Lisbon and its deep connection to the traditional Portuguese music genre, Fado. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Lisbon as a nurturing and enchanting city, one that cradles its inhabitants with its melodies. The song opens with a request to Lisbon to teach the singer a simple, enchanting song, one that can be sung from a window as a serenade to a passing lover. This imagery evokes a sense of nostalgia and romance, highlighting the intimate relationship between the city's music and its people.

The chorus of the song delves deeper into the mystical quality of Lisbon's music. It suggests that when Lisbon sings, it is unclear whether it is singing or praying, as its voice carries a tender sadness. This duality captures the essence of Fado, a genre known for its melancholic and soulful tunes that often reflect themes of longing, loss, and the beauty of sorrow. The song emphasizes that Lisbon's beauty is magnified when it sings, and it is through Fado that the city's true spirit is revealed.

In the latter part of the song, the singer expresses a desire to share a punishment with Lisbon for having loved it so deeply. This punishment is to sing together the verses of the same Fado, symbolizing a shared experience of love and sorrow. The singer wishes for Lisbon to remember and preserve the Fados sung, so that they can be sung back to the singer in the future. This cyclical nature of music and memory underscores the enduring bond between the city and its music, and the way Fado serves as a repository of collective emotions and experiences.