Rebola, Bola

Astrud Gilberto's song 'Rebola, Bola' is a playful yet pointed critique of pretense and superficiality. The lyrics revolve around a character who boasts about their abilities and status but ultimately fails to deliver on their promises. The repeated phrase 'na bola você não dá' (you don't deliver on the ball) serves as a metaphor for this person's inability to live up to their own hype. The song's catchy refrain and rhythmic repetition emphasize the disconnect between appearance and reality.

The phrase 'dezenove não é vinte' (nineteen is not twenty) underscores the idea that small differences can be significant, and that exaggeration or false claims are easily exposed. The character in the song is described as someone who tries to impress others with a 'jeito de bacana' (cool demeanor) and luxurious displays, such as a 'camarote de luxo pra assistir o carnaval' (luxury box to watch the carnival). However, these superficial attributes do not compensate for their lack of genuine skill or substance.

Astrud Gilberto, known for her smooth bossa nova style, uses this song to blend a light, danceable melody with sharp social commentary. The repetitive structure of the lyrics mirrors the repetitive nature of the character's empty boasts, making the critique both memorable and impactful. The song invites listeners to look beyond appearances and value authenticity over showmanship, a timeless message wrapped in a delightful musical package.