15771
Pedrin
A Raw Glimpse into Urban Struggles and Resilience
Pedrin's song '15771' offers a stark and unfiltered look into the harsh realities of life in marginalized urban communities. The lyrics open with a tense scene of a robbery, immediately setting a tone of desperation and survival. The protagonist's 'mente fria' (cold mind) and the need to keep the system unaware highlight the lengths to which individuals go to navigate a world that often feels stacked against them. This is not just a personal struggle but a systemic one, where the 'problema' (problem) is deeply rooted in the home and the 'solução' (solution) is found in the form of a weapon, symbolizing the pervasive sense of insecurity and the need for self-protection in these environments.
The recurring line 'Nós marola como pode' (We ride the wave as we can) serves as a metaphor for resilience and adaptability. Despite the 'chuva de whisky' (rain of whisky) and the thirst they have endured, there is a sense of making the best out of a difficult situation. The song contrasts the glamorized violence seen on TV with the brutal reality faced daily by the community. Pedrin criticizes the hypocrisy of society, where the same actions that are sensationalized in media are condemned when expressed through music, highlighting the double standards and the stigmatization of marginalized voices.
Pedrin also touches on political disillusionment, particularly during election times, where promises of happiness in the favelas are often empty. The lyrics reflect a deep-seated mistrust in the government, which is seen as the 'maior crime' (biggest crime) of today. The song pays homage to lost friends and family, who are remembered and celebrated despite the ongoing struggles. This sense of community and remembrance is a poignant reminder of the human cost of systemic neglect and violence. '15771' is a powerful narrative of survival, resilience, and the unyielding spirit of those living in the face of adversity.