Exu
Metá Metá Lyrics


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Aboke onan
Aboke
Aboke onan abokere

Aboke onan
Aboke
Aboke onan abokere
Alajá untó
kariman idé panidé

Alajá untó
kariman idé panidé

Aboke onan
Abokere
Aboke onan abokere

Aboke onan
Abokere
Aboke onan abokere

Alajá untó
kariman idé panidé

Alajá untó
kariman idé panidé

Alajá untó
kariman idé panidé

Aboke onan
Abokere




Aboke onan abokere
...

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Metá Metá's song Exu are spoken mostly in Yoruba, which is one of the major languages spoken in Nigeria, and also influenced by Afro-Brazilian culture. The repetition of "Aboke onan" and "Abokere" creates a hypnotic rhythm that is connected to the rituals surrounding the worship of Exu, which is a Yoruba deity considered the divinity of the crossroads, communication and change, and also associated with trickery, sexuality, and chaos.


In the context of Yoruba religious practices, Exu exists as both a protector and a destroyer, a trickster and a messenger, and the gatekeeper of the other spirits. The song's lyrics suggest that Exu is always present, always requiring attention, and always in motion. The use of "Alajá untó" and "kariman idé panidé" can be interpreted as invocations or prayers to Exu. The constant repetition of this phrase, along with the drumbeat and the call-and-response chorus, creates a sense of urgency and intensity that is a hallmark of Yoruba music.


Line by Line Meaning

Aboke onan
The name Aboke is spoken


Aboke
Aboke is invoked


Aboke onan abokere
The name Aboke is repeated and emphasized


Alajá untó
A greeting to Alajá, a spirit or deity


kariman idé panidé
Inviting and welcoming Alajá to the festivities


Aboke onan Abokere
The name Aboke is called out again


Alajá untó
Another greeting to Alajá


kariman idé panidé
Continuing to welcome and honor Alajá


Alajá untó
One more greeting to Alajá


Aboke onan Abokere
The name Aboke is repeated for a final time




Contributed by Caleb I. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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Comments from YouTube:

@hillbilycat

laroie aos meta metas você são incriveis um dia vocês serão o afro sambas do anos 10

@claudiaanisio3347

maravilhosxs Juçara Marçal e Metá Metá. Os vi no protesto contra o coiso, amei mais ainda, além de talentosos coerentes! <3

@felipeolivsilva1

Alguém me ajuda com o significado dessa canção.

@caiquezago4504

lindo!! - 

@saxabyft3273

Uq eu tô fazendo aqui?

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