Preta Calunga
Song Lyrics
É Preta, é preta, é preta calunga
Capoeira é preta calunga
É Preta, é preta, é preta calunga
Berimbau é preta calunga
É Preta, é preta, é preta calunga
Capoeira é preta calunga
English Translation
It’s black, it’s black, it’s black,
calunga
Capoeira is black, calunga
It’s black, it’s black, it’s black,
calunga
The berimbau is black, calunga
It’s black, it’s black, it’s black,
calunga
Capoeira is black, calunga
History and sentiment behind song
During the Afro-Brazilian festival dance of Maracatu, a calunga, a doll representing tribal deities, is often paraded. It is kept throughout the year in a special place and is only carried by women. This song reminds people of Capoeira’s origin.
Preta: Slang term used to refer to a black female – but as a compliment.
