Mas Que Nada
Oba Oba Samba House
The Joyful Rebellion of 'Mas Que Nada'
The song 'Mas Que Nada' by Oba Oba Samba House is a vibrant expression of the Brazilian spirit, particularly through the lens of samba music. The phrase 'Mas que nada' can be loosely translated to 'no way' or 'yeah, right,' and is often used to dismiss someone's doubts or negativity. In the context of the song, it's a call to set aside obstacles and surrender to the joy of samba. The lyrics invite the listener to move out of the way because the singer is determined to dance to the lively and animated samba.
The song references the cultural roots of samba, mentioning 'maracatu'—a type of music and dance from the Northeast of Brazil—and 'samba de preto velho,' which refers to a style of samba with African influences, often associated with the wisdom of the elders in Afro-Brazilian communities. The repetition of 'Oba oba oba' is an exclamation of happiness and celebration, reinforcing the festive mood of the song.
'Mas Que Nada' is not just a song about dancing; it's a declaration of resilience and joy in the face of life's challenges. The music encourages listeners to embrace the moment, dance, and let go of their worries. It's a celebration of Brazilian culture, rhythm, and the universal language of music that brings people together. The song's upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it an enduring classic that continues to inspire people to dance and feel the infectious energy of samba.