Manha
Teto
The Hustler's Anthem: Teto's 'Manha'
Teto's song 'Manha' is a vivid portrayal of the hustle and street life, encapsulating the essence of making money and navigating the challenges that come with it. The repetitive and catchy chorus, 'Tenho a manha de fazer dinheiro,' which translates to 'I have the knack for making money,' sets the tone for the entire track. Teto emphasizes his ability to generate wealth, a skill that he takes pride in and that defines his lifestyle. The lyrics also highlight the constant presence of danger and the need to stay alert, as seen in lines like 'Vários corpos no bueiro' (Various bodies in the sewer) and 'Tô chapado o dia inteiro' (I'm high all day), which reflect the harsh realities of his environment.
The song delves into themes of loyalty and camaraderie within Teto's gang, as well as the importance of connections, or 'plugs,' in the underground economy. The line 'Role de gang na van' (Gang ride in the van) paints a picture of solidarity and shared experiences among his crew. Teto's reference to 'fazer o corre da maçã' (doing the apple run) is a metaphor for hustling and making moves to secure financial gains. The recurring mention of envious individuals, 'Invejoso é meu fã' (The envious are my fans), underscores the idea that success breeds jealousy, yet Teto remains unfazed and focused on his goals.
Teto's lyrics also touch on his sense of invincibility and confidence. He describes himself as someone who carries his city on his back and is destined to shine, regardless of the obstacles. The imagery of hiding money under the table and evading the police ('Os cana revira de ponta-cabeça / Não pega nada, porque nóis não é besta') further illustrates his street smarts and ability to outwit authorities. The song's braggadocious tone is complemented by references to luxury and indulgence, such as enjoying time in a Jacuzzi or a Mercedes, which symbolize the rewards of his hard work and resilience.
'Vi muitos querendo me derrubar' (I saw many wanting to bring me down) and 'Meu brilho ninguém nunca vai ofuscar' (No one will ever overshadow my shine) are powerful declarations of Teto's determination and self-belief. He acknowledges the challenges and adversaries he faces but remains steadfast in his pursuit of wealth and success. 'Manha' is not just a song about making money; it's an anthem of perseverance, street wisdom, and the relentless drive to rise above adversity.