Canto O Fado

Lenita Gentil's 'Canto O Fado' is a heartfelt ode to the therapeutic power of music, specifically the traditional Portuguese genre of Fado. The song's lyrics emphasize the idea that singing can be a remedy for suffering. Gentil suggests that when one sings, even if just for a moment, the pain and sorrow seem to fade away. This notion is beautifully encapsulated in the lines, 'É cantar e num momento / Ninguém se lembra do mal,' which translate to 'It's singing and in a moment / No one remembers the bad.' The act of singing, especially with a well-tuned guitar and a strong voice, becomes a form of emotional release and healing.

The recurring theme in the song is the use of Fado as a coping mechanism for various emotional states. Whether it's sadness, longing, jealousy, or lost hope, Gentil finds solace in singing Fado. The repetition of the phrase 'Canto o fado' (I sing Fado) underscores the genre's role as a constant companion through life's ups and downs. This reflects the traditional role of Fado in Portuguese culture, where it has long been a means of expressing deep emotions and navigating the complexities of life.

Gentil also touches on the idea that some people seem to revel in their sadness, carrying a 'fatal air' that no one imposes on them. She contrasts this with her own approach, advocating for a more positive outlook through the power of song. The final lines, 'Vendo bem nada vale / Mais do que uma cantiga,' meaning 'In the end, nothing is worth / More than a song,' encapsulate the song's message: music, and particularly Fado, holds an unparalleled value in its ability to uplift and heal.