His characteristic style fuses rock and roll, samba, bossa nova, jazz, maracatu, funk, ska and even hip hop, with lyrics that mix humor and satire, as well as themes esoteric. Jorge's work has a unique importance for Brazilian music, as it incorporates new elements in swing and guitar playing, with characteristics of North American rock, soul and funk. Furthermore, he brought Arab and African influences, coming from his mother, born in Ethiopia.
He influenced sambalanço and samba-rock and was covered and honored by countless exponents of the new generations of Brazilian music, such as Mundo Livre S/A, Os Paralamas do Sucesso, Skank, Fernanda Abreu, Racionais MC's and Belô Velloso. Jorge Ben Jor exploded with the song "Mas, Que Nada!" and, soon after, ratified his talent with another great hit, "Chove Chuva". Two songs that were neither bossa nova nor samba. Purists thought his music was too modern. It was difficult for musicians at the time to follow him, so much so that his first albums were recorded with a group that played samba jazz at Beco das Garrafas, Meirelles e os Copa 5, led by saxophonist J. T. Meirelles.
Brother
Jorge Ben Lyrics
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With many love and flowers, and music, and music
Brother, brother, prepare one more happy way for my Lord
With many love and flowers, and music, and music
Jesus Christ is my Lord, Jesus Christ is my friend
Jesus Christ is my Lord, and Jesus Christ is my friend
Brother, brother, prepare one more happy way for my Lord
With many love and flowers, and music, and music
Brother, brother, prepare one more happy way for my Lord
With many love and flowers, and music, and music
Jesus Christ is my Lord, Jesus Christ is my friend
Jesus Christ is my Lord, and Jesus Christ is my friend
Brother, brother, prepare one more happy way for my Lord
With many love and flowers, and music, and music
Brother, prepare one more happy way for my Lord
(Sweet Jesus!)
Brother, prepare one more happy way for my Lord
(Sweet Jesus!)
Brother, prepare one more happy way for my Lord
Jesus Christ is my Lord, Jesus Christ is my friend
(Sweet Jesus!)
Jesus Christ is my Lord, Jesus Christ is my friend
(Come body brother!)
Jesus Christ is my Lord, Jesus Christ is my friend
The lyrics to Jorge Ben's song "Brother" are a call to action for a community to come together and prepare a joyful way for Jesus Christ, who is both a Lord and a friend. The repetition of the phrase "prepare one more happy way for my Lord" emphasizes the importance of creating a joyful atmosphere for Christ to enter into. The use of the word "brother" also suggests a sense of communal responsibility to create this atmosphere.
The repeated refrain of "Jesus Christ is my Lord, Jesus Christ is my friend" highlights the dual nature of Christ as both a higher power and a personal companion. This duality is echoed in the call to both "prepare" and celebrate with "flowers, and music."
Overall, the message of the song can be interpreted as a call to create a community of love and celebration around the figure of Christ. The use of repetition and the communal language of "brother" emphasize the importance of this shared responsibility.
Line by Line Meaning
Brother, brother, prepare one more happy way for my Lord
Let us prepare a joyful path for Jesus
With many love and flowers, and music, and music
Let us show our love and devotion to Jesus through music and flowers
Jesus Christ is my Lord, Jesus Christ is my friend
Jesus holds a special place in my heart as both my Lord and my friend
Brother, prepare one more happy way for my Lord
Let's continue to create a joyful path for Jesus
(Sweet Jesus!)
An exclamation of love and reverence for Jesus
(Come body brother!)
An invitation for others to join in creating a joyful path for Jesus
Contributed by Callie E. Suggest a correction in the comments below.