Zabumba, Triângulo e Sanfona

In the song "Zabumba, Triângulo e Sanfona," Poeta J Sousa pays homage to the traditional roots of forró music, lamenting its transformation and the loss of its authentic essence. The lyrics recount the history of forró, emphasizing the pivotal role of Luiz Gonzaga, known as the 'Rei do Baião' (King of Baião), in shaping this genre. Gonzaga's innovative spirit led him to incorporate the zabumba, sanfona (accordion), and later the triângulo (triangle) into forró, creating a unique and beloved sound that resonated deeply with the people of the Brazilian Northeast.

The song nostalgically reflects on the simplicity and purity of the original forró, where Gonzaga's music brought people together, dancing closely to the rhythm of these three instruments. However, the lyrics also express a sense of loss and disillusionment with the rise of electronic forró, which has overshadowed the traditional style. The introduction of modern instruments like the guitar and drums, and the commercialization of the genre, are seen as a departure from the authentic forró that Gonzaga championed. This shift is portrayed as a cultural erosion, where the true spirit of forró has been diluted and replaced by a more generic, less meaningful version.

Poeta J Sousa's lyrics serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The song is a call to recognize and honor the origins of forró, to remember the joy and community it fostered, and to resist the homogenizing forces of commercialization. By recounting the story of Gonzaga and his musical innovations, the song underscores the value of tradition and the need to keep it alive in the face of changing times. The emotional weight of the song is palpable, as it mourns the loss of a musical era that was deeply intertwined with the identity and soul of the Brazilian Northeast.