Zerovinteum

Planet Hemp's song 'Zerovinteum' offers a raw and unfiltered look at the city of Rio de Janeiro, capturing its beauty and its darker, more dangerous side. The title 'Zerovinteum' refers to the area code for Rio, setting the stage for a deeply personal and localized narrative. Marcelo D2 and BNegão paint a vivid picture of a city where life is a constant battle, and survival requires a blend of street smarts and courage. The lyrics juxtapose the city's natural beauty with its harsh realities, such as violence, crime, and social inequality.

The song opens with a stark description of Rio as a 'cidade-desespero' (city of despair), where only the fearless can thrive. The artists highlight the omnipresent danger, from beach muggings to brutal police actions and gang violence. The line 'Segurança é subjetiva' (Security is subjective) underscores the precariousness of life in Rio, where safety is an illusion and vigilance is a necessity. Despite these challenges, the artists express a deep connection to their city, calling it their home and refusing to trade it for any other place.

'Zerovinteum' also critiques the social and economic disparities that plague Rio. The lyrics point out the stark contrast between the affluent areas and the favelas, where violence and poverty are rampant. The song criticizes the superficial appreciation of Rio's beauty, which often ignores the suffering of its less fortunate residents. The artists use powerful imagery and metaphors, such as 'um enorme mar de sangue' (a huge sea of blood), to convey the extent of the violence and injustice. The song ends with a call to awareness and vigilance, urging listeners to recognize the city's dual nature and the need for change.

Planet Hemp's musical style, blending rap and rock, amplifies the intensity of their message. The aggressive beats and sharp lyrics reflect the urgency and anger of the artists, making 'Zerovinteum' not just a song, but a powerful social commentary on life in Rio de Janeiro.