Kleber Gomes Cavalcante (1975), better known by stage names like Criolo Doi… Read Full Bio ↴Kleber Gomes Cavalcante (1975), better known by stage names like Criolo Doido or Criolo, is a Brazilian singer of rap and soul.

Criolo began rapping in São Paulo, in 1989, and until the early 2000 was almost unknown. In 2006, he released his first studio album, entitled 'Ainda há tempo' and founded the Rinha dos MC's, a place where there are weekly shows, graffiti and photography exhibitions and freestyle.

In 2008, won the "Song of the Year" and "Person of the Year" in the fourth edition of the event "O Rap é compromisso."

To celebrate his twenty year career, he recorded a live DVD in the Rinha dos MC's, which was released in 2010, called Criolo Doido Live in SP.

Samba Sambei
Criolo Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

Samba assim, samba sambei,
Mas não esqueci das palavras do rei. (x3)

De onde vem, e pra onde vai
A caminhança do nobre rapaz,
In the ghetto, rude boy sensation,
Freedom please! a mente dos demais,

"black dandas" "ummababa azule"
Lês criolês aqui pregando a paz,
Exigir, é, direitos iguais,
Orgulhar à nossos ancestrais

Não baixe a guarda, a luta não acabou (x2)

Oêê lês criolês

Samba assim, samba sambei,
Mas não esqueci das palavras do rei. (x3)

Eu vejo a mata sendo desprezada,
E os cães que me protegem, me guiam nessa estrada,
Se tem ideia, manda uma que nutre,
Pois tô cansado de tanta palhaçada.

Se é pra paz, a nação já tá armada,
De consciência, a alma já tá elevada,

Não baixe a guarda, a luta não acabou. (x2)

Overall Meaning

The song "Samba Sambei" by Brazilian rapper and singer Criolo is a powerful anthem that blends the infectious rhythms of samba with poignant lyrics about social justice and the ongoing struggle for equality in Brazil. The song begins with the refrain "Samba assim, samba sambei, mas não esqueci das palavras do rei" (Samba like this, samba with joy, but I haven't forgotten the words of the King), which about the words of Martin Luther King Jr., whose message of equality and justice resonates strongly with Criolo.

The first verse of the song speaks to the journey of a noble young man and touches on themes of poverty, crime, and the need for freedom. The second verse brings in references to Black culture and Creole language, emphasizing the importance of embracing and celebrating one's ancestral heritage. Throughout the song, Criolo urges listeners to maintain their fighting spirit and not give up on the struggle for a more just society. He also calls for more constructive dialogue and action, rather than just empty words and posturing.

Overall, "Samba Sambei" is a powerful and socially conscious song that speaks directly to the issues facing Brazil today. It serves as a reminder that despite progress, there is still much work to be done to achieve true equality and justice for all.

Line by Line Meaning

Samba assim, samba sambei, Mas não esqueci das palavras do rei. (x3)
I may be enjoying samba, but I haven't forgotten the wise words of my ancestors and leaders. This is a reminder that even as we celebrate and enjoy our culture, we shouldn't forget the teachings and guidance of those who came before us.

De onde vem, e pra onde vai A caminhança do nobre rapaz, In the ghetto, rude boy sensation, Freedom please! a mente dos demais,
I see the journey of a noble young man, born and raised in the ghetto, who seeks freedom and equality for his people. He represents all those who strive to change the oppressive reality of their surroundings and inspire others to do the same.

"black dandas" "ummababa azule" Lês criolês aqui pregando a paz, Exigir, é, direitos iguais, Orgulhar à nossos ancestrais
We, the 'black dandas' and 'ummababa azule' (creoles), stand for peace and equality. We demand the same rights as everyone else and are proud of our ancestors who fought for their freedom and dignity.

Não baixe a guarda, a luta não acabou (x2)
Let us not drop our guard or give up the fight for justice, even when times are tough. This message is echoed twice to emphasize the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity.

Eu vejo a mata sendo desprezada, E os cães que me protegem, me guiam nessa estrada, Se tem ideia, manda uma que nutre, Pois tô cansado de tanta palhaçada.
I witness the destruction of our forests and the degradation of our environment. I rely on my instinct and intuition, as well as the protection of my faithful companions, to navigate the challenges of life. If you have a valuable idea worth sharing, let it be one that nourishes the mind and soul, not one that contributes to the noise and chaos of the world.

Se é pra paz, a nação já tá armada, De consciência, a alma já tá elevada,
If peace is what we seek, our nation is already armed with the power of its collective conscience and elevated soul. This line is a call to action, reminding us that we have the means to effect change and create a better world if we are willing to harness our inner strength and work together.

Contributed by Jack H. Suggest a correction in the comments below.

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