a seco

Tó Brandileone's song "a seco" paints a vivid picture of disparity and inequality through its lyrics. The song narrates the experience of musicians who are invited to perform at a lavish event, only to find themselves excluded from the opulence enjoyed by the guests. The repeated refrain of "fome danada e só tinha água" (terrible hunger and there was only water) underscores the stark contrast between the abundance available to the guests and the lack of basic provisions for the performers.

The lyrics list an extravagant menu featuring delicacies like lobster, salmon, and caviar, juxtaposed with the musicians' meager access to mere water. This disparity highlights the social divide and the often-overlooked struggles of artists who, despite contributing to the event's success, are not afforded the same luxuries. The song uses food and drink as metaphors for privilege and deprivation, emphasizing the inequities that exist within social and professional settings.

Brandileone's choice of words and repetition of the phrase "ai, ai, ai, ai, ai" adds a layer of lament and frustration, capturing the emotional weight of the situation. The song serves as a critique of societal norms that prioritize appearances and status over fairness and equity. Through its poignant storytelling, "a seco" invites listeners to reflect on the value of art and the often-unseen challenges faced by those who create it, urging a reconsideration of how we treat those who enrich our cultural experiences.