Foi Deus
Francisco José
The Divine Gift of Fado: A Soulful Expression
Francisco José's song 'Foi Deus' is a poignant exploration of the origins and essence of fado, a traditional Portuguese music genre known for its deep emotional resonance. The lyrics reflect a profound sense of melancholy and introspection, as the singer grapples with the reasons behind his compulsion to sing fado. The repeated phrase 'Foi Deus' (It was God) suggests that the ability to express such profound emotions through song is a divine gift, bestowed upon the singer by a higher power.
The song delves into the metaphysical, attributing the beauty of the natural world—such as the light in the eyes, the fragrance of roses, and the gold of the sun—to God's creation. This divine intervention extends to the singer's own life, where God has placed a 'rosário de penas' (rosary of sorrows) in his heart. This metaphorical rosary represents the myriad of emotions and sufferings that the singer experiences and expresses through his music. The act of singing becomes a cathartic process, allowing the singer to find solace and calm within the verses of his songs.
'Foi Deus' also touches on the universal themes of love, sorrow, and the human condition. The singer admits that he does not fully understand why he sings, but he knows that it brings him a sense of relief and connection to his emotions. The song beautifully captures the essence of fado, where the expression of sorrow and longing is intertwined with a sense of divine purpose and artistic destiny. Through this lens, the singer's voice is not just a personal attribute but a sacred tool given by God to navigate the complexities of life and emotion.