Desse Jeito

Song Meaning

Maria Rita's "Desse Jeito" isn't just a song; it's a vibrant declaration of spiritual identity and cultural pride. The track pulses with the energy of Afro-Brazilian religious traditions, a potent mix of reverence and defiance. The lyrics are steeped in the lexicon of Candomblé and Umbanda, referencing deities (Obaluaê, Oxalá, Ogum, Xangô), rituals, and sacred foods (sarapatel, caruru, pipoca). But this isn't mere ethnographic display. It's a statement of belonging, a claiming of heritage in a world that often seeks to erase or marginalize it. The repeated invocation of "Axé, mojumba, zambi, kolofé"—expressions of respect and connection to the divine—underscores the song's core message: spiritual authenticity. Maria Rita uses her powerful voice to create a space where faith and cultural expression intertwine. It’s a powerful assertion of self. The core of the song’s meaning resides in its defiant embrace of syncretism. The lyrics don’t shy away from the messy, complex reality of religious practice in Brazil, where African traditions have long been interwoven with Catholicism and other belief systems. Lines like "Quem cuspiu a canjibrina no santo / Veste branco em dia de oxalá" hint at the tensions and contradictions inherent in this syncretic landscape. Yet, there's a celebration of resilience, a sense that these apparent contradictions are, in fact, a source of strength. The phrase "Cada um com a sua fé!" encapsulates this spirit of tolerance and acceptance. Maria Rita champions the right to practice one's faith authentically, without judgment or prejudice. Ultimately, "Desse Jeito" is a song about owning one's identity, flaws and all. The repeated declaration "Eu vou desse jeito que o rei mandou" (I'm going this way that the king ordered) is a powerful affirmation of self-determination. It suggests a commitment to living in accordance with one's spiritual beliefs, regardless of external pressures or expectations. The song’s insistent rhythm and Maria Rita's commanding vocals create an atmosphere of unwavering conviction. It's a call to embrace one's heritage, to stand tall in the face of adversity, and to celebrate the power of faith. "Desse Jeito" isn't just music; it's a manifesto.