Canto de Oyá

“Canto de Oyá” by Rosa Amarela is a powerful homage to the Afro-Brazilian deity Oyá, also known as Yansã. The song is a celebration of strength, resilience, and the divine feminine energy that Oyá embodies. Oyá is a prominent figure in the Candomblé and Umbanda religions, often associated with winds, storms, and transformation. The lyrics reflect a deep connection between the singer and this powerful orixá, portraying Oyá as a maternal figure who imparts wisdom and strength to her followers.

The song opens with vivid imagery, describing the singer as being made of wind, fire, and steel, symbolizing resilience and adaptability. The mention of being taught to be a breeze when possible and having the bravery of a thousand buffaloes encapsulates the duality of Oyá’s nature—gentle yet fiercely protective. This duality is a central theme, emphasizing the balance between softness and strength that Oyá represents.

The recurring references to Oyá as a butterfly and a queen highlight her transformative power and regal presence. Butterflies are often symbols of change and metamorphosis, aligning with Oyá’s association with storms and transformation. The lyrics also express gratitude and reverence, acknowledging Oyá’s guidance and protection. The singer’s declaration of being Oyá’s daughter and feeling honored to carry her strength underscores the personal and spiritual connection to the deity.

The song’s chorus, with its repetitive invocation of Oyá, serves as a mantra, reinforcing the singer’s devotion and the omnipresence of Oyá’s power. The imagery of lightning as portals and the dance with the divine fire further illustrate the mystical and transformative aspects of Oyá’s influence. “Canto de Oyá” is not just a song but a spiritual ode, celebrating the enduring and transformative power of the divine feminine embodied by Oyá.