Vira-Vira
Mamonas Assassinas
The Satirical Tale of 'Vira-Vira' by Mamonas Assassinas
The song 'Vira-Vira' by the Brazilian band Mamonas Assassinas is a humorous and satirical take on sexual adventures and misadventures. Known for their comedic and irreverent style, Mamonas Assassinas often used humor to address various topics, and this song is no exception. The lyrics tell a story of a character who is invited to a 'suruba' (Brazilian Portuguese slang for an orgy), but sends his partner Maria in his place. Upon her return, she is physically worn out, leading to a series of comedic exchanges between the characters in the song.
The chorus, which translates to 'Spin, spin and turn, let go of the wheel and come, they touched my butt and I still haven't slept with anyone,' reflects the character's frustration and surprise at the events unfolding at the orgy. The song uses this chorus to create a catchy and repetitive hook that emphasizes the comedic nature of the situation. The use of colloquial language and explicit content is characteristic of the band's style, which often pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in Brazilian music at the time.
The song's narrative continues with exaggerated and humorous incidents, including a bizarre accident involving a 'negão' (a term for a black man, which can be considered pejorative depending on the context) and a goat, further highlighting the absurdity of the situation. The song concludes with a call to abandon promiscuity and return to work, adding a layer of moral commentary to the otherwise playful lyrics. 'Vira-Vira' is a prime example of Mamonas Assassinas' ability to blend humor with social commentary, wrapped in a lively and engaging musical composition that resonated with audiences.