Esse Tal de Roque Enrow

Rita Lee's song 'Esse Tal de Roque Enrow' delves into the generational divide and the cultural upheaval brought about by the advent of rock and roll. The lyrics are presented from the perspective of a concerned parent speaking to a doctor about their daughter's sudden change in behavior and lifestyle. The daughter, who once adhered to traditional norms, is now captivated by the rebellious spirit of rock and roll, symbolized by the mysterious 'Roque enrow.' This term is a playful phonetic twist on 'rock and roll,' highlighting the parent's confusion and lack of understanding of the new cultural phenomenon.

The song captures the essence of the 1970s, a time when rock and roll was not just music but a symbol of rebellion, freedom, and a break from conventional societal norms. The parent's lament about the daughter's disdain for traditional dresses, her newfound independence, and her association with a boy who wants to 'change the world' reflects the broader societal anxiety about the rapidly changing cultural landscape. The repeated questioning of 'Who is he?' underscores the parent's bewilderment and inability to grasp the significance of rock and roll, which they perceive as a fleeting trend or a mysterious force.

Rita Lee, known as the 'Queen of Rock' in Brazil, uses this song to highlight the tension between the older and younger generations. The parent's attempts to understand and control their daughter's behavior are met with resistance, as the daughter embraces the freedom and nonconformity that rock and roll represents. The song's playful yet poignant lyrics encapsulate the spirit of an era marked by cultural revolution and the inevitable clash between tradition and modernity.