Preta Báh

The song 'Preta Bá' by Abadá Capoeira is a poignant narrative that delves into themes of injustice, loss, and the deep bonds formed between individuals despite societal hierarchies. The repetitive plea, 'Meu Deus, cadê Preta Bá, meu Deus,' sets a mournful tone, emphasizing the desperation and sorrow felt by those searching for Preta Bá, a character who symbolizes care and sacrifice.

Preta Bá is depicted as a nurturing figure who raised the colonel's son as if he were her own, providing him with the sustenance and love he needed to survive. This relationship highlights the often-overlooked contributions of Black women in caregiving roles, especially during times when they were subjected to systemic oppression and exploitation. The song paints a vivid picture of the colonel's son crying in his mother's arms, unable to find the woman who had been his true caregiver.

The narrative takes a dark turn as it reveals that Preta Bá was unjustly punished for a crime she did not commit. The colonel's command led to her suffering and eventual death, a tragic outcome that underscores the brutal realities of power dynamics and racial injustice. The colonel's subsequent regret and the death of his son without Preta Bá's care serve as a somber reminder of the irreversible consequences of such actions. The song ends on a reflective note, pondering the afterlife and the possibility of the colonel's son reuniting with Preta Bá, suggesting a hope for reconciliation and peace beyond the earthly realm.