Chega de Bole Bole
João Luiz Corrêa
Reviving Tradition: The Call to Return to Roots in 'Chega de Bole Bole'
João Luiz Corrêa's song 'Chega de Bole Bole' is a vibrant call to return to traditional values and cultural roots. The repetitive chorus, 'Chega de Bole-Bole, Chega de Mexe-Mexe,' translates to 'Enough of the Fuss, Enough of the Messing Around,' and sets the tone for the song's message. Corrêa emphasizes the importance of preserving cultural heritage, particularly through traditional dance and music, such as 'sapateio' (a type of folk dance) and 'gaita de botão' (button accordion). This reflects a desire to maintain and celebrate the customs that define the community's identity.
The lyrics also touch on the generational divide and the clash between modernity and tradition. Corrêa narrates an incident where he disapproves of his wife's modern dress, which he finds inappropriate and not in line with traditional values. This anecdote highlights the tension between embracing contemporary trends and staying true to one's cultural roots. The song critiques the younger generation's inclination towards modern dance styles and behaviors, which Corrêa views as a departure from the community's traditional practices.
Furthermore, the song humorously addresses the behavior of young men and women at social gatherings. Corrêa describes young men who boast about their masculinity but end up dancing alone, and young women who dance provocatively, causing him to question their motives. This playful critique underscores the song's overarching theme of returning to more modest and traditional ways of socializing and celebrating. Through 'Chega de Bole Bole,' João Luiz Corrêa not only entertains but also delivers a poignant message about the importance of cultural preservation and the value of tradition in a rapidly changing world.