Tammurriata Nera

Renato Carosone's song 'Tammurriata Nera' is a fascinating exploration of surprise, societal norms, and the unexpected twists of life. The song, sung in Neapolitan dialect, tells the story of a woman who gives birth to a black child, much to the astonishment of her community. The repeated phrase 'niro, niro' (black, black) emphasizes the shock and disbelief surrounding the child's appearance, which starkly contrasts with the expectations of the people around him.

The lyrics delve into the reactions and speculations of the community. The lines 'A 'e vvote basta sulo na guardata, e 'a femmena è restata, sott''a botta, 'mpressiunata...' suggest that sometimes, a mere glance or impression can lead to unexpected outcomes. This could be interpreted as a metaphor for the unpredictable nature of life and the way society often jumps to conclusions without understanding the full context. The song humorously yet poignantly captures the gossip and the attempts to rationalize the situation, reflecting the human tendency to seek explanations for the inexplicable.

Carosone's musical style, which blends traditional Neapolitan music with jazz and swing influences, adds a lively and engaging backdrop to the song's narrative. The repetitive and rhythmic 'Séh! gira e vota, séh...' mimics the cyclical nature of gossip and the endless search for answers. Ultimately, 'Tammurriata Nera' is a commentary on acceptance and the absurdity of societal judgments. It reminds listeners that, regardless of names or labels, the essence of a person remains unchanged, as highlighted in the refrain 'chillo, o fatto, è niro, niro, niro, niro comm'a che!'.