Tempos idos

Cartola's song 'Tempos idos' is a poignant reflection on the evolution of samba, a genre deeply rooted in Brazilian culture. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia for the past, reminiscing about the early days of samba in Praça Onze, a historic neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro. This area was a cultural melting pot where samba thrived among the local 'malandros' (streetwise individuals). The song paints a vivid picture of a simpler time when samba was an intimate, community-driven experience.

As the song progresses, Cartola highlights the transformation of samba from its humble beginnings to its widespread acceptance and international acclaim. He notes how samba gradually refined itself and entered the grand salons of society, breaking free from its origins in the streets and terreiro (backyards). This journey symbolizes not just the physical movement of samba but also its cultural ascent, gaining recognition and respect across different social strata and eventually on the global stage.

Cartola's lyrics also celebrate the artists who carried samba beyond Brazil's borders, performing for dignitaries like the Duchess of Kent. This international success is portrayed as a victory for the genre, which managed to retain its original essence despite its global travels. The song's repetition of the phrase 'os tempos idos, nunca esquecidos' (the times gone by, never forgotten) underscores a bittersweet acknowledgment of change, blending pride in samba's achievements with a longing for its roots. Through 'Tempos idos,' Cartola masterfully captures the emotional and cultural journey of samba, making it a timeless tribute to the genre's enduring legacy.