Hoje Vai Ter

Tribo da Periferia's song 'Hoje Vai Ter' offers a gritty and unfiltered look into the complexities of urban life in Brazil. The repetitive chant 'hoje vai ter cerol' sets a foreboding tone, suggesting that something significant and potentially dangerous is about to happen. 'Cerol' is a Brazilian slang term often associated with kite fighting, where glass powder is used to make kite strings sharp, symbolizing the sharp and often perilous nature of life in the periphery.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a community where extremes coexist. There are those who have wealth and luxury, symbolized by the Citroën cars and hundred-dollar bills, and those who struggle to make ends meet. The song highlights the various roles people play in this environment—buyers, sellers, victims, and perpetrators. It underscores the harsh realities and the 'rules of life' that govern these urban spaces, where violence, survival, and resilience are everyday themes.

The song also delves into the cyclical nature of violence and poverty. The lines 'a violência cresce cotidiano aquece e a massa enlouquece' (violence grows, daily life heats up, and the masses go crazy) reflect the escalating tension and the loss of innocence over time. The mention of drugs like cocaine and the pursuit of money further illustrate the desperate measures people take to escape their circumstances. The song's narrative is a stark reminder of the socio-economic disparities and the survival tactics employed by those living on the margins.

In essence, 'Hoje Vai Ter' is a powerful commentary on the socio-economic struggles, the pursuit of wealth, and the harsh realities of life in the periphery. It captures the essence of a community that is both resilient and vulnerable, navigating a world where danger and opportunity coexist in a delicate balance.