João

Cazuza's song "João" is a rich tapestry of characters and archetypes, all sharing the common name João. The name João is a common one in Brazil, akin to John in English-speaking countries, and Cazuza uses it to explore various facets of Brazilian life and identity. The song opens with references to João as a father, a hero, and a stepfather, immediately setting the stage for a multifaceted exploration of this ubiquitous name. Each João mentioned in the song represents a different slice of life, from the everyday man to the extraordinary figure, from the saintly to the flawed.

The lyrics weave through various Joãos, each with their own story and significance. There's João, the good-looking and brave one, and João, who was rejected by Julia. There's João of Maria, João of God, and João of Blessing, each representing different cultural and religious connotations. The song also touches on social issues, mentioning João from the hills (a reference to the favelas) and João who is a medium, hinting at the spiritual and mystical aspects of Brazilian culture. The diversity of Joãos reflects the complexity and richness of Brazilian society, where every João has a story worth telling.

Cazuza's lyrical genius lies in his ability to make each João relatable and significant. Whether it's João the athlete, João the American, or João the desperate, each character is painted with a brush of empathy and understanding. The song also carries a personal touch, as Cazuza mentions his fondness for João in its purest form, whether as a child he will teach to swim or as an old man in his coffin. The song ends with a plea to protect all the Joãos in this regatta of life, emphasizing the universal struggle and resilience of the common man. Through "João," Cazuza pays homage to the everyman, celebrating the diversity and unity of human experience.