Nos Ki Tem

Blacka Silva's song 'Nos Ki Tem' is a vibrant celebration of beauty and cultural pride. The lyrics, sung in Cape Verdean Creole, emphasize the inherent beauty of the people, both men and women, from their community. The repeated lines 'Ómi bunitu é nos ki ten, mudjer bunita é nos ki ten' translate to 'Handsome men are what we have, beautiful women are what we have,' highlighting a collective pride in their appearance and identity. This refrain serves as a powerful affirmation of self-worth and community pride, rejecting any need for external validation.

The song also touches on themes of resilience and unity. Phrases like 'Nu ka tene konta pa da ningen, nu ta pinta manta' ('We don't owe anyone, we paint our own blanket') suggest a strong sense of independence and self-reliance. The lyrics convey a message of overcoming problems by leaving them at home and presenting oneself with confidence and dignity. This is further emphasized by the lines 'Nu ta dexa prubléma na kasa, nu ta fase gentis grandi badja' ('We leave problems at home, we make ourselves great people'), which underline the importance of focusing on personal and communal growth.

Cultural references are also prominent in the song. The mention of 'mama Áfrika' connects the Cape Verdean identity to the broader African heritage, celebrating their roots and the beauty that comes from it. The song's upbeat and repetitive nature, with the phrase 'nu ta pinta manta' ('we paint our blanket') repeated multiple times, reinforces the idea of creating and showcasing their own unique identity and culture. Blacka Silva's musical style, which blends traditional Cape Verdean sounds with modern influences, further enhances this celebration of cultural pride and beauty.