Favela
Antonio Carlos Jobim Lyrics

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Antonio Carlos Jobim - Vinícius de Moraes
O morro não tem vez, E o que ele fez já foi demais

Mas olhem bem vocês, Quando derem vez ao morro, Toda a cidade vai cantar

Morro pede passagem, Morro quer se mostrar, Abram alas pro morro, Tam- bo- rim vai falar
É um, é dois, é três, É cem, é mil a batu- car

O morro não tem vez, Mas se derem vez ao morro, Toda a cidade vai cantar

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Overall Meaning

The song Favela by Antônio Carlos Jobim laments the discrimination and neglect of the marginalized communities, represented by the favelas (slums) in Rio de Janeiro. The opening lyrics, "O morro não tem vez, e o que ele fez já foi demais" which means "The hillside has no chance, and what it has done is too much already," expresses the frustration of the voiceless favela inhabitants who have been pushed to the limits of poverty, violence, and lack of basic amenities. The song continues with a plea for the city to give the morro (hillside) a chance to be heard, acknowledging the potential and creativity of its people. The rhythmic beat of the song shifts to samba, reflecting the festive and vibrant energy of the favela, as the singer calls for the city to open up for the morro, showcasing its cultural richness with the drums (tamborim) as its spokesperson. The final repetition of the chorus, "O morro não tem vez, mas se derem vez ao morro, toda a cidade vai cantar," meaning "The hillside has no chance, but if the hillside gets a chance, the whole city will sing," emphasizes the transformative power of inclusion and the value of diversity in enriching the entire community.

Line by Line Meaning

O morro não tem vez, E o que ele fez já foi demais
The hill, synonymous with the lower class, has been ignored and disenfranchised for too long, despite its notable contributions to society.

Mas olhem bem vocês, Quando derem vez ao morro, Toda a cidade vai cantar
If only people would take the time to listen, the talents and culture of the hill will flourish and have a positive impact on the rest of society.

Morro pede passagem, Morro quer se mostrar, Abram alas pro morro, Tam- bo- rim vai falar
The hill is no longer content with being ignored and wants to showcase its music and art to the rest of the city. The tamborim will be the messenger of this message.

É um, é dois, é três, É cem, é mil a batu- car
The hill's music is ubiquitous and can be heard and felt by everyone, no matter their social standing or background.

O morro não tem vez, Mas se derem vez ao morro, Toda a cidade vai cantar
Once the hill is given a chance, its uniqueness and creativity will shine and unite the entire city in song and celebration.

Contributed by Dominic C. Suggest a correction in the comments below.

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