Tantinho
Silvanno Salles
A Love Song for the Ages: Silvanno Salles' 'Tantinho'
Silvanno Salles' song 'Tantinho' is a heartfelt ode to love and the joy it brings. The lyrics are imbued with a sense of deep affection and happiness, as the singer expresses how profoundly he loves someone. The repeated use of the word 'Odara,' which means 'good' or 'beautiful' in Yoruba, adds a layer of cultural richness and emphasizes the positive emotions conveyed throughout the song.
The song begins with a rhythmic chant, setting a joyful and almost meditative tone. Salles sings about creating this song in a 'coma of love,' indicating that his feelings are so intense that they consume him entirely. He acknowledges his happiness and the uniqueness of his love, stating that he has never loved anyone 'a tantinho assim'—a little bit like this—without caring if they love him back. This line suggests a selfless and pure form of love, one that exists for its own sake.
As the song progresses, Salles describes how this love has brought peace and poetry into his life. He invites his beloved to join him, calling them his 'vitamina, guia e é show'—vitamin, guide, and show—highlighting how essential and uplifting they are to him. The chorus, with its plea for the beloved to give their hand and love, reinforces the desire for a mutual and enduring connection. The song concludes with a mix of Portuguese and English, where Salles repeatedly declares his love and need for the person, emphasizing the universality and timelessness of his feelings.
'Tantinho' is a beautiful celebration of love's power to transform and elevate our lives. It captures the essence of romantic devotion and the joy that comes from being deeply connected to another person.