Chico Fininho

Rui Veloso's song 'Chico Fininho' paints a vivid picture of a character navigating the gritty streets of an urban landscape. The protagonist, Chico Fininho, is depicted as a streetwise individual, always on the move and deeply entrenched in a life of substance abuse. The lyrics mention him swaying to the music of Lou Reed, a nod to the counterculture and rebellious spirit of the 1970s and 1980s. Chico is described as always being 'cheio de speed' (full of speed), indicating his constant state of drug-induced energy and restlessness.

The song delves deeper into Chico's life, highlighting his heroin use and the physical toll it takes on him. References to 'shoot nas retretes' (shooting up in the toilets) and 'curtindo uma trip de heroína' (enjoying a heroin trip) paint a stark picture of addiction. His appearance, marked by pointed shoes and bunions, along with the mention of patchouli, pimples, and hair gel, adds to the image of a person trying to maintain a semblance of style amidst the chaos of his life. The lyrics also touch on the health issues he faces, such as colic, scurvy, and diarrhea, further emphasizing the harsh realities of his existence.

Chico Fininho's life is one of constant vigilance, always wary of the police ('Fareja a judite em cada esquina'). The song captures the essence of a subculture familiar with the dangers of street life, where the only problem is the common acid of strychnine, a deadly poison often found in impure drugs. The lyrics also highlight his connections within the community, knowing all the 'flipados' (junkies) from Cantareira to Baixa, two areas that represent the highs and lows of urban life. Through 'Chico Fininho,' Rui Veloso offers a raw and unfiltered look at the struggles and resilience of those living on the fringes of society.