Zumbi

Ellen Oléria's song "Zumbi" is a powerful tribute to the enduring spirit of resistance and freedom embodied by Zumbi dos Palmares, a historical figure who led one of the largest communities of escaped slaves in Brazil. The song opens with a litany of African regions—Angola, Congo, Benguela—evoking the origins of the enslaved people brought to Brazil. This invocation serves as a poignant reminder of the cultural and human richness that was uprooted and subjected to the brutalities of slavery.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the slave trade, describing a "great auction" where a "princess" and her subjects are sold, highlighting the dehumanizing nature of slavery. The imagery of sugarcane and coffee plantations, with "white cotton" being harvested by "black hands," underscores the exploitation and racial injustice that were foundational to the colonial economy. This stark contrast between the wealth of the landowners and the suffering of the enslaved people is a central theme of the song.

The repeated refrain "Eu quero ver" ("I want to see") expresses a yearning for change and justice, culminating in the arrival of Zumbi. Zumbi is portrayed as a powerful leader, "lord of wars" and "lord of demands," symbolizing hope and the fight for liberation. His anticipated arrival signifies a turning point, a moment when the oppressed will rise and reclaim their dignity and freedom. Through this song, Ellen Oléria not only honors Zumbi's legacy but also calls for continued resistance against oppression and a celebration of African heritage and resilience.