12 + 1

Charlie Brown Jr.'s song '12 + 1' is a raw and powerful depiction of street life, brotherhood, and the constant struggle for survival. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the urban environment, where skateboarding, hip-hop, and rock culture intersect, creating a unique sense of community and identity. The song opens with a reference to a police car, setting the tone for a narrative that revolves around the challenges and confrontations faced by those living on the streets. The 'irmandade de rua' (street brotherhood) is a central theme, highlighting the solidarity and resilience of the group as they navigate their harsh reality.

The repeated phrase '12 + 1' and the reference to 'trezentos e oitenta' (380) are metaphors for the constant threat of violence and the need for self-defense. The numbers likely allude to firearms, emphasizing the ever-present danger and the lengths to which individuals must go to protect themselves and their community. The lyrics also reflect a desire for better days and a life free from trouble, as the narrator mentions distancing himself from conflicts and dreaming of a better future. However, the harsh reality is that any misstep can lead to severe consequences, as indicated by the lines 'se pagar pra ver o bicho pega na cara' (if you pay to see, the beast hits you in the face).

The song also delves into personal aspirations and the pursuit of a better life. The narrator dreams of success, wealth, and freedom, but these dreams are constantly overshadowed by the struggles and dangers of street life. The lyrics 'Ele sempre quis ser o cara bãozudo' (He always wanted to be the big guy) and 'Pensando na vida' (Thinking about life) reflect this internal conflict between ambition and the harsh realities of their environment. The song ends with a call to action, urging listeners to break free from their negative cycles and seek their own path to freedom, inspired by the memory of someone who spoke the truth and dominated their life.