Para Pedro

“Para Pedro” by José Mendes is a lively and humorous song that paints a vivid picture of a chaotic night at a dance in the countryside. The song is set at a baile (dance) on a farm in the Serra region, where a character named Pedro becomes the center of attention due to his mischievous behavior. The lyrics describe Pedro arriving at the dance in the early hours and immediately causing a stir among the attendees, particularly the women, who are both amused and exasperated by his antics.

The chorus, “Para Pedro, Pedro para,” which translates to “Stop Pedro, Pedro stop,” is a recurring plea from the women and other attendees as Pedro continues to cause chaos. His actions range from pinching his girlfriend to making the older women laugh by tickling them. The song humorously details how Pedro’s behavior escalates, leading to a series of comical events, including a scuffle with the older women and a mistaken entry into a room that frightens the young ladies.

José Mendes uses a playful and rhythmic style to convey the story, making it easy for listeners to visualize the scenes and feel the energy of the dance. The song captures the essence of rural festivities, where such mischievous characters often become the life of the party, albeit sometimes to the annoyance of others. The repeated calls for Pedro to stop highlight the blend of frustration and amusement that his antics provoke, making the song a delightful and entertaining narrative of a night filled with laughter and disorder.