Ara Wa Romi Wa (feat. Marisa Monte e Gilberto Gil)

The song 'Ara Wa Romi Wa' by Grupo Ofá, featuring Marisa Monte and Gilberto Gil, is a beautiful homage to Oshun, a prominent deity in the Yoruba religion. The lyrics are primarily in Yoruba, a language spoken in Nigeria and other parts of West Africa, and they repeatedly invoke the presence and blessings of Oshun, the goddess of love, fertility, and rivers. The phrase 'Ara Wa R'ómi Wà' translates to 'Our body needs water,' symbolizing the essential and nurturing qualities of Oshun, who is often associated with water and its life-giving properties.

Throughout the song, the lyrics emphasize Oshun's role as a motherly figure, referred to as 'Iyá Omiro,' which means 'Mother of the Waters.' This reverence highlights her nurturing and protective nature, as well as her ability to bring joy and prosperity to her followers. The repetition of 'Osun Lá Omiró' and 'Orisà Olá Nilesun' underscores her status as a revered and powerful deity, capable of bestowing wealth and happiness. The song's structure, with its repetitive and rhythmic chants, mirrors traditional Yoruba music, which often uses repetition to create a meditative and spiritual atmosphere.

The collaboration with Marisa Monte and Gilberto Gil, two iconic figures in Brazilian music, adds a rich layer of cultural fusion to the song. Both artists are known for their deep appreciation of Afro-Brazilian culture and their ability to blend traditional and contemporary sounds. This collaboration not only pays tribute to Oshun but also celebrates the enduring influence of African heritage in Brazilian music and culture. The song serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of different cultures and the universal themes of love, fertility, and the divine feminine.