Rock 'n' Roll

Raul Seixas' song "Rock 'n' Roll" is a vibrant homage to the genre that shaped his musical identity and career. The lyrics take us on a journey through his early days in Bahia, where he imitated Little Richard, much to the bewilderment of onlookers who mistook his energetic performances for epileptic fits. This anecdote sets the tone for the song, highlighting the rebellious and misunderstood nature of rock 'n' roll, a theme that runs throughout the lyrics.

Seixas continues by reflecting on the cultural and moral landscape of his time, contrasting the conservative values of the older generation with the liberating force of rock music. He mentions the Teatro Vila Velha and the Bossa Nova movement, which catered to the intellectual elite, while rock 'n' roll was seen as indecent and subversive. This dichotomy underscores the genre's role as a catalyst for social change and its ability to challenge the status quo.

The song also touches on the commercialization of rock 'n' roll, noting how it has been co-opted for advertisements and deemed banal by some. Yet, despite these changes, Seixas asserts that the raw power of rock music still has a profound impact on him, likening its effect to a physical jolt to his spine. He pays tribute to rock legends like Chuck Berry and Elvis Presley, emphasizing that the essence of rock 'n' roll transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries. The closing lines reaffirm his commitment to the genre, declaring that he will stay true to rock 'n' roll until the end.

"Rock 'n' Roll" by Raul Seixas is not just a song; it's a declaration of love for a genre that has defied conventions and inspired generations. Through his lyrics, Seixas captures the spirit of rock 'n' roll as a force of rebellion, creativity, and enduring influence.