Desafinado
João Gilberto & Astrud Gilberto Lyrics

In the song "Desafinado," João Gilberto and Astrud Gilberto explore the concept of being out of tune or off-key, both in a literal and metaphorical sense. The lyrics begin by acknowledging that if the person speaking is told they are out of tune, it causes immense pain. The singer explains that only privileged individuals have an ear as sensitive as theirs, while they possess only what God has given them - implying that their lack of perfection is part of their nature.

The song continues by addressing those who insist on classifying their behavior as anti-musical. The singer admits to lying but argues that this is the essence of bossa nova - a genre known for its relaxed, improvisational style. They claim that being out of tune is natural and that what others don't know or sense is that even the out of tune have a heart.

The lyrics then shift to a personal betrayal and mention photographing the person with a Rolleiflex camera, a symbol of capturing a moment of truth. Their ingratitude is revealed in the developed photo. However, the singer asserts that the person cannot speak of the same betrayal when it comes to their love, which they believe to be greater than any other. They criticize the person for getting lost in their own music and forgetting that even the out of tune have a heart that beats silently in their chest.

Overall, "Desafinado" expresses a sense of pride and defiance in being out of tune, emphasizing that even those who are not perfect have their own unique experiences and emotions.