Mas Que Nada (feat. Black Eyed Peas)

The song 'Mas Que Nada' by Sérgio Mendes, featuring the Black Eyed Peas, is a vibrant fusion of Brazilian samba and contemporary hip-hop. The original 'Mas Que Nada' is an iconic Brazilian song written by Jorge Ben Jor, which gained international fame when covered by Sérgio Mendes in the 1960s. The collaboration with the Black Eyed Peas brought this classic tune into the 21st century, blending traditional rhythms with modern beats and rap verses.

The lyrics of the song celebrate the infectious spirit of samba music and the joy it brings. The phrase 'Mas que nada' can be loosely translated to 'Oh, come on' or 'No way', a Brazilian expression of disbelief or encouragement. The Black Eyed Peas add their own flavor to the track, with verses that talk about the power of music to cross boundaries and bring people together. They emphasize the party-starting nature of their music, likening it to lava bubbling up and heating like a sauna, suggesting an unstoppable force that penetrates and energizes.

The song also pays homage to the roots of samba, with references to 'samba de preto velho' (samba of the old black man) and 'maracatu' (an Afro-Brazilian musical rhythm). These elements highlight the cultural depth of the genre and its historical significance. The collaboration between Sérgio Mendes and the Black Eyed Peas serves as a bridge between generations and geographies, showcasing the timeless appeal of samba and its ability to adapt and resonate within the global music landscape.