Nascidos & Criados (feat. Teresa Salgueiro)

Slow J's song 'Nascidos & Criados,' featuring Teresa Salgueiro, delves deep into themes of identity, belonging, and the struggles of reconciling one's roots with the desire for freedom. The lyrics open with a poignant declaration of feeling trapped, both by societal constructs and personal identity. The duality of being 'branco e preto' (white and black) and the tension between these identities highlight the internal conflict and the sense of not fully belonging anywhere. This feeling of entrapment is further emphasized by the metaphor of being 'preso dentro do alçapão' (trapped inside the trapdoor), suggesting a sense of confinement and the longing to escape to a place where fear does not dominate.

The song also touches on the inevitability of heritage and the impact of family and ancestry. The line 'Família não se escolhe, nascidos e criados' (Family is not chosen, born and raised) underscores the idea that one's origins are inescapable. Slow J reflects on the cultural and familial legacies that shape individuals, acknowledging that everyone reaps what their ancestors have sown. This is poignantly illustrated in the imagery of 'aproprio-me do fado' (I appropriate the fado), where Slow J embraces the traditional Portuguese music genre, symbolizing acceptance and integration of his cultural heritage.

Teresa Salgueiro's haunting vocals add a layer of melancholy and nostalgia, particularly in the lines about facing the sea and leaving one's homeland. The song speaks to the immigrant experience, the pain of leaving behind loved ones, and the hope of finding a new place to belong. The repeated farewell 'Vais longe, adeus, adeus' (You go far, goodbye, goodbye) encapsulates the bittersweet nature of departure and the enduring connection to one's roots. Ultimately, 'Nascidos & Criados' is a powerful exploration of identity, heritage, and the universal quest for belonging.