Meu Ébano

Alcione's 'Meu Ébano' is a vibrant and affectionate ode to black beauty and romantic desire. The song's title, which translates to 'My Ebony,' sets the tone for a celebration of blackness and the allure it holds for the singer. The lyrics describe a deep admiration for a black man, whose physical attributes and charm are so compelling that they captivate the singer's heart. The repeated exclamation 'É!' throughout the song emphasizes the singer's astonishment and enchantment with this man.

The song's verses weave a narrative of irresistible attraction, with the singer acknowledging the man's smooth approach and fearing that her feelings may indeed be love. The use of terms like 'negão' (a term of endearment for a black man in Brazilian Portuguese) and 'ébano' (ebony) highlights the man's skin color as a defining and attractive characteristic. The lyrics also play with the idea of temptation and surrender, suggesting a dance between resistance and the inevitable pull of attraction. The man is likened to a 'príncipe negro' (black prince) and described with sensuous imagery, such as 'lábios de mel' (lips of honey).

Alcione, known for her powerful voice and presence in the samba genre, brings a celebratory and sensual energy to the song. The music complements the lyrics with a rhythm that invites the listener to sway and be swept away by the narrative. 'Meu Ébano' is not just a love song; it's a tribute to black beauty and the cultural richness it represents. The song's embrace of racial identity and sensuality makes it a standout piece in Alcione's repertoire and in Brazilian music.