Africana

Gerilson Insrael's song 'Africana' is a vibrant celebration of African beauty, culture, and pride. The repetitive chorus 'Oh Mata, Mata devagar' can be interpreted as a call to appreciate and admire the beauty of African women slowly and respectfully. The word 'Mata' in Portuguese means 'kill,' but in this context, it is likely used metaphorically to express how the beauty of the African woman is so striking that it 'kills' or overwhelms the observer. The phrase 'devagar' means 'slowly,' suggesting that this admiration should be done with care and reverence.

The lyrics repeatedly highlight the physical and cultural attributes of the African woman, referring to her 'carapinha, dura dura,' which translates to her natural, tightly coiled hair. This line emphasizes the natural beauty and strength of African features, which are often underrepresented or misrepresented in mainstream media. The song also mentions her 'pele negra,' or black skin, and describes her as 'linda e meiga,' meaning beautiful and sweet. These descriptions serve to uplift and celebrate African women, portraying them as the pride of their land and the queens of their communities.

Gerilson Insrael's 'Africana' also touches on themes of empowerment and cultural pride. The line 'É a dona da favela, tem poder na saia dela' translates to 'She is the owner of the favela, she has power in her skirt,' suggesting that African women hold significant power and influence within their communities. The song's upbeat and rhythmic nature, combined with its positive and affirming lyrics, makes it a powerful anthem of African identity and pride. By celebrating the beauty and strength of African women, 'Africana' encourages listeners to appreciate and honor their cultural heritage.