Quando o Sorriso Morre

Valete's song "Quando o Sorriso Morre" is a poignant exploration of the African experience post-colonialism, capturing the complex emotions and harsh realities faced by many. The lyrics begin with a powerful assertion: "Mano, sorri enquanto a vida corre porque um africano morre quando o seu sorriso morre." This sets the tone for the entire song, emphasizing the importance of maintaining hope and resilience in the face of adversity. The smile becomes a metaphor for life, spirit, and survival, suggesting that losing one's smile is akin to losing one's essence and will to live.

The song delves into the aftermath of colonialism, highlighting the initial euphoria of independence and the subsequent disillusionment. Valete paints a vivid picture of a land once full of promise but now plagued by unemployment, lack of education, and economic despair. The lyrics, "Não ha comercio, não ha serviços, não ha nada," underscore the void left by the departing colonizers, who abandoned the people to fend for themselves in a broken system. This stark reality is contrasted with the idealized notion of emigrating to Europe for a better life, only to face new forms of discrimination and hardship.

Valete also addresses the systemic racism and socio-economic challenges that African immigrants encounter in Europe. The lines, "Tugas dizem que não podes ter outro desenlaçe para além dos trabalhos precários porque só tens a quarta classe," reflect the limited opportunities and persistent prejudices that hinder their progress. Despite these struggles, the song's refrain, "Acredita, o mundo é teu, não sejas refem," serves as a rallying cry for perseverance and self-belief. Valete's message is clear: even in the face of overwhelming odds, the African spirit must remain unbroken, and the smile must endure as a symbol of hope and resilience.