Sou do Fado
Misia
The Soul of Fado: Misia's Ode to Portuguese Tradition
Misia's song "Sou do Fado" is a heartfelt tribute to the traditional Portuguese music genre known as Fado. The lyrics express a deep connection to this melancholic and soulful style of music, which is often characterized by themes of longing, sorrow, and the complexities of life. Misia begins by declaring her identity as intrinsically linked to Fado, stating that she lives a sung poem through the Fados she has created. This suggests that her life and art are inseparable, and that her true self is revealed through her music.
The song also highlights the importance of poets in the Fado tradition. Misia calls upon the poets of her country to weep, acknowledging that they share the same roots and life experiences that have brought them together. She implies that without these poets, Fado and Fadistas (Fado singers) like herself would not exist. This underscores the collaborative nature of Fado, where the lyrics, often written by poets, are brought to life by the singers who interpret them with deep emotion and personal expression.
Misia's voice, described as 'tão dolorida' (so painful), is attributed to the influence of these poets. She acknowledges that her singing, which some may call madness, is a blessed madness that allows her to express her suffering and passion. This reflects the essence of Fado, where the singer's emotional delivery is paramount, and the music serves as a cathartic outlet for both the performer and the listener. Through "Sou do Fado," Misia not only pays homage to the genre but also celebrates the shared cultural and emotional heritage that defines Fado music.