Na Vida Só Vale Quem Tem

The song 'Na Vida Só Vale Quem Tem' by Mestre Barrão delves into the transient nature of love and friendship when they are contingent upon material wealth. The lyrics tell a story of a person who was once loved and surrounded by people when they had money. However, as soon as the wealth disappeared, so did the affection and companionship of those around them, including a significant other referred to as 'Iaiá'. This narrative is a poignant reflection on the superficiality of relationships based on financial status rather than genuine connection.

Mestre Barrão, known for his contributions to Capoeira music, infuses the song with cultural elements from this Afro-Brazilian martial art. The mention of the 'berimbau', a single-string percussion instrument, symbolizes the artist's enduring relationship with Capoeira, which unlike fickle friends, remains a constant source of solace and inspiration. The song's chorus, 'Na vida só vale quem tem', translates to 'In life, only those who have are worth something', which is a critical commentary on societal values that equate a person's worth with their material possessions.

The song's melancholic tone is balanced by an underlying message of self-reliance and the importance of finding something steadfast in life, like Capoeira for the singer. It's a reminder that while money can buy temporary affection, it cannot purchase loyalty or love. The artist uses his personal experience and cultural background to craft a narrative that resonates with anyone who has felt the sting of fair-weather friends and the search for something truly reliable.