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.
Capoeira
Jorge Ben Lyrics
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Vamos sair dessa jogada
Vamos embora camarada
Vamos sair dessa jogada
Quem tem amor tem coração
Capoeira é que não dá pé não
Quem tem amor tem coração
Capoeira é que não dá pé não
Deve ajudar os companheiros seus
Pois quem é filho de Deus
Deve ajudar os companheiros seus
Mesmo sofrendo mesmo chorando
Negro tem que levar a vida cantando
In Jorge Ben's song "Capoeira", the lyrics invite the listener to leave behind a problematic situation and rise above it. The repetition of the line "Vamos embora camarada, vamos sair dessa jogada" ("Let's go, comrade, let's get out of this game") emphasizes the importance of leaving a negative environment behind in order to move forward. The song then discusses the importance of love and how having a heart is essential, while also recognizing the challenges faced by those who practice capoeira.
Capoeira is a Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, music, and acrobatics. The lyrics refer to capoeira as something that is difficult to do, as the line "Capoeira é que não dá pé não" ("Capoeira, that just doesn't work") suggests. However, the song also recognizes the importance of helping one's fellow compatriots, even in difficult times. The final line, "Mesmo sofrendo mesmo chorando, negro tem que levar a vida cantando" ("Even if suffering, even if crying, Black people have to go on singing"), highlights the perseverance and strength needed to overcome obstacles, and the importance of music in maintaining hope.
Line by Line Meaning
Vamos embora camarada
Let's go, my friend
Vamos sair dessa jogada
Let's get out of this mess
Quem tem amor tem coração
Those who have love have a heart
Capoeira é que não dá pé não
But capoeira doesn't work here
Pois quem é filho de Deus
For those who are children of God
Deve ajudar os companheiros seus
They must help their companions
Mesmo sofrendo mesmo chorando
Even when suffering and crying
Negro tem que levar a vida cantando
The black man must live singing
Contributed by Gianna N. Suggest a correction in the comments below.