Early Life and Career
Rafaella Carrá was born in Bologna, Italy. Her passion for the performing arts began at an early age, and she enrolled at the Centro Sperimentale di Cinematografia (Italian National Film School) in Rome to study acting. Carrá made her acting debut in the 1952 film "Tormento del passato," which marked the beginning of her long and successful career in the entertainment industry.
Music Career
Carrá's music career took off in the 1970s with the release of her first album, "Raffaella... Senzarespiro," which featured the hit single " Tuca Tuca." Her catchy tunes, upbeat rhythms, and vibrant stage presence quickly gained her a dedicated fanbase. Carrá's music often touched on themes of love, empowerment, and positivity, making her an iconic figure in the disco and dance music genres.
Some of her most popular singles include " A far l'amore comincia tu," "Tanti Auguri," and "Fiesta." Carrá also achieved success in the Spanish-speaking market with the release of her Spanish-language albums, such as "Felicidad" and "Hay que venir al sure." Her music career continued to thrive throughout the 1980s and 1990s, and she remains an influential figure in popular music today.
Television Career
In addition to her successful music career, Rafaella Carrá was a beloved television personality in Italy and beyond. She hosted several popular TV shows, such as "Canzonissima" and "Pronto... Raffaella?" Carrá's charismatic presence and distinctive style made her a popular choice for hosting variety shows, talent shows, and other entertainment programs.
Legacy
Rafaella Carrá's impressive career, which spanned over five decades, has left a lasting impact on the music and entertainment industry. Her music continues to be celebrated by fans of all ages, and her vibrant, energetic performances have inspired countless artists across generations. As a trailblazer in the Italian and international entertainment scenes, Carrá will be remembered as a true icon who brought joy and positivity to millions of people around the world.
Africa
Raffaella Carrà Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Entre el rey bantú el babú y el zulú cuando yo llegué vaya lio que se armó
EO OO
Para mi pensé que feisimos que son me van a comer aquí no me quedo yo
EO OO
Iban tan pintados que no pude comprender que me sonreian y decian ven a veeeer
1:
Aaaafrica al sonido del tan tan todos bailan sin parar estas en
Aaaaafrica con su magico poder hechizada por la luna me quedéee
Dijo el rey Bantú: esta me la quedo yo
Y los otros dos: eso no lo crees ni tu
EO OO
Y como los tres me querian conseguir les propuse yo que me dieran a elegir
EO OO
2:
Mientras lo pensaba me traian para mi gemas y diamantes esmeraldas y marfíiiil
(BIS)
EO OO
Mientras lo pensaba me traian gemas y diamantes, esmeraldas y marfiiiil
1
2
1
The lyrics of Raffaella Carrà's song Africa describe the singer's arrival in Africa, where she is greeted by three different tribal leaders - the Bantu king, the Babu, and the Zulu. Upon her arrival, chaos ensues and she fears that she might be eaten by the tribe. However, she soon realizes that they are friendly and inviting her to see their culture, which is exemplified by the lively dancing to the "tan tan" beat. The singer becomes entranced by the magical powers of Africa and chooses to stay, much to the dispute of the three leaders who want her for themselves. The singer then decides to take some time to ponder her decision, while being showered with precious gems and materials by the tribespeople.
The song Africa contains elements of romanticization of Africa, portraying it as a place of wonder and magic. The portrayal of Africa as being tribal also contributes to the idea that Africa is exotic and untouched by Western influence. The mention of the Bantu, Babu, and Zulu tribes highlights the importance of traditional African cultures and their influence on modern African society. The lyrics showcase the beauty of Africa through the imagery of gemstones and dancing, but also touch on the conflicts and power struggles within African societies.
Line by Line Meaning
Entre el rey bantú el babú y el zulú cuando yo llegué vaya lio que se armó
Upon my arrival in Africa, a chaos ensued between the Bantu, Babu, and Zulu kings.
Para mi pensé que feisimos que son me van a comer aquí no me quedo yo
I was afraid they would eat me and thought about leaving.
Iban tan pintados que no pude comprender que me sonreian y decian ven a veeeer
The kings were so elaborately dressed and painted that I couldn't understand their smiles and invitations to come see.
Aaaafrica al sonido del tan tan todos bailan sin parar estas en
In Africa, everyone dances non-stop to the beat of the drums (tan tan) and you're caught in the rhythm.
Aaaaafrica con su magico poder hechizada por la luna me quedéee
Africa with its magical power enchanted me under the moonlight, and I decided to stay.
Dijo el rey Bantú: esta me la quedo yo
The Bantu king said, 'I'll keep her for myself.'
Y los otros dos: eso no lo crees ni tu
The other two kings responded skeptically, 'You don't really believe that.'
Mientras lo pensaba me traian para mi gemas y diamantes esmeraldas y marfíiiil
As I thought about my decision, the kings brought me gems, diamonds, emeralds, and ivory.
Mientras lo pensaba me traian gemas y diamantes, esmeraldas y marfiiiil
As I contemplated my options, the kings continued to present me with precious jewels and materials.
Aaaaafrica al sonido del tan tan todos bailan sin parar estas en
In Africa, everyone dances non-stop to the beat of the drums (tan tan) and you're caught in the rhythm.
Writer(s): Danilo Vaona, Ignacio Ballesteros, Paolo Casiraghi
Contributed by Alaina C. Suggest a correction in the comments below.