Alma Rubra

“Alma Rubra” by Boi Garantido is a vibrant celebration of cultural identity and passion, deeply rooted in the traditions of the Brazilian Amazon. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of the joy and excitement that permeate the São José festival, a time when the community comes together to celebrate their heritage. The phrase “Na baixa do São José alegria contagia o coração” captures the infectious happiness that fills the air, while “Nas veias a tradição e o corpo e alma rubros de paixão” speaks to the deep-seated traditions that run through the veins of the people, igniting their bodies and souls with a fiery passion.

The song pays homage to the Boi Garantido, a symbol of cultural pride and emotional connection for the community. The lines “Garantido é o nosso boi, fonte da minha emoção, incandescente de calor” highlight the intense emotional bond between the people and their beloved Boi Garantido, whose heart on its forehead symbolizes love and devotion. The repetition of “Sou Garantido, sou tudo isso, sou emoção, sou fantasia” emphasizes the identity and unity of the people, who find themselves in the rhythm of the drums and the warmth of the music.

The color red, or “vermelho,” is a recurring motif in the song, symbolizing the passion and energy of the community. The lyrics “Vermelho eu sou, vermelho e branco, vermelho é cor que eu canto” and “Vermelho é o pôr-do-sol, a cor que eu amo” reflect the deep emotional connection to the color red, which represents the sunset, love, and the essence of their cultural expression. Through “Alma Rubra,” Boi Garantido encapsulates the spirit of a people who live and breathe their traditions, finding joy and unity in their shared heritage.