Tanacara
Gonzaguinha Lyrics

In Gonzaguinha's song Tanacara, the lyrics highlight the idea that Brazil does not fully understand or appreciate the culture and influence of Africa in the country's history and identity. The first verse, "O Brasil não conhece a África, mas a África sabe bem o Brasil" (Brazil does not know Africa, but Africa knows Brazil well), indicates a lack of understanding on the part of Brazil, while Africa has a better grasp of Brazil's culture and history. The second verse, "O Brasil não conhece a África, o Brasil não sabe bem o Brasil" (Brazil does not know Africa, Brazil does not know Brazil well), suggests that without acknowledging the influence of African culture, Brazil is not fully aware of its own identity and history.

The chorus, "Tá na cara, ta na veia, tá na cor, Tá no som do tambor, Tá na bunda e no olho do amor, Tá no dia de branco, Tá nas almas da segunda-feira, Tá no brilho da fé dos filhos de lemanjá" (It's in the face, in the veins, in the color, It's in the sound of the drum, It's in the butt and in the eye of love, It's in the white day, It's in the souls of Monday, It's in the shine of the faith of Lemanjá's children) reinforces the message that the influence of African culture is present and pervasive in Brazil through music, dance, spirituality, and everyday life. The final line, "Axé Brasil, África" (Power Brazil, Africa), is a call to acknowledge and celebrate the influence of African culture in Brazil.

Overall, Gonzaguinha's Tanacara is a reminder that Brazil's history and identity are deeply connected to the culture and influence of Africa, and that it should be celebrated and recognized as such.