Laia Loio: Touching Tribute to mestre Bimba.

History and sentiment behind song

A Tribute to Mestre Bimba

This song is the most perfect and touching tribute to Mestre Bimba, the founder of Capoeira Regional. He passed away in Sao Salvador, the capital city of Bahia - the birthplace of Capoeira.

The writer is lamenting the loss of his mentor. He along with the whole town of Bahia relays out this message loudly to the sons (iaia) and daughters (ioio) of the slave masters. Mestre Bimba has taught this writer Capoeira since childhood and has perfected him in all the strategic Capoeira kicks such as 'Meia-Lua' meaning half-moon kick done with both hands on the ground.

Then he has perfected him in 'Markelo' or the hammer kick, followed by the instep kick, 'Rabo de Arraia'. He complements his master who was a great musician, cunning and clever and had powers of a Mandingueiro, or a sorcerer. He is now lamenting that since his master has passed away, the art may die down. Hence he is pleading with everyone to keep Mestre Bimba's tradition alive and to carry on his legacy by practising this rich art form.