Corrente

Chico Buarque's song 'Corrente' is a reflective and forward-thinking piece that delves into the evolution of samba music. The lyrics express a deep connection to the genre, portraying samba as a 'corrente' or chain, symbolizing continuity and tradition. Buarque emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the changes and improvements in samba, suggesting that only those who are 'embriagado ou muito louco' (drunk or very crazy) would fail to see its progress. This metaphorical chain represents both the historical roots and the modern advancements of samba, highlighting its dynamic nature.

The song also touches on themes of self-awareness and humility. Buarque admits to having 'sambado errado' (danced samba wrong) in the past, indicating a personal journey of growth and understanding. This confession is a call for sincerity and clarity, urging listeners to reflect on their own perceptions and biases. The repeated line 'E coerentemente assino embaixo' (And coherently I sign below) reinforces his commitment to this evolved perspective, showing a strong alignment with the current state of samba.

Moreover, 'Corrente' addresses the collective joy and unity that samba brings to people. Buarque notes the happiness of the crowd, which contrasts with his own moments of sadness and introspection. This juxtaposition underscores the communal aspect of samba, where individual struggles are overshadowed by the collective celebration. By creating a 'samba bem pra frente' (a very forward samba), Buarque not only pays homage to the genre's rich history but also champions its ongoing transformation and relevance in contemporary society.