Arlindo Cruz - O Show Tem Que Continuar (MTV ao vivo)

Arlindo Cruz: A Source of Inspiration for My Music and Life

Arlindo Cruz, born on September 14, 1958, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is one of the defining voices of Brazilian samba and pagode. His rich musical legacy stretches across decades, and his ability to blend tradition with innovation has left an indelible mark on the Brazilian music scene. His songs are filled with raw emotion, powerful storytelling, and a deep connection to the roots of Afro-Brazilian culture. For me, as a vocalist and producer, Cruz’s music is not just an inspiration—it is an essential part of my creative process.

Arlindo Cruz’s Impact on My Music

Before every gig, I make it a point to listen to Arlindo Cruz. It’s a ritual of sorts—a palette cleanser to reset my mindset before I dive into my own music. Cruz’s soulful sambas provide a mental reset, helping me approach my performance with a fresh and open mind. Listening to him allows me to let go of the noise and reconnect with the core of my artistic expression, reminding me of the importance of staying grounded and connected to my cultural roots. The ritual is vital for my creative journey because it allows me to stay innovative while respecting the traditions that have shaped my sound.

As an artist, it’s crucial for me to maintain a balance between freshness and authenticity. To create music that feels new and exciting, I need to tap into the energy of my ancestors—those whose struggles and triumphs are reflected in the music they left behind. Arlindo Cruz, as a Black man from Brazil, embodies this bridge between the past and present. His music connects me to the deep well of African heritage shared across the diaspora. The rhythms, melodies, and stories he weaves into his sambas resonate with my own experience. The effects of the Atlantic Slave Trade, which scattered our people across the world, still reverberate in the music of both Brazil and the African-American community. To hear these echoes in Cruz’s work is to feel the universality of our histories, a shared experience of struggle and resilience that transcends borders.

In my own words, “It’s all us.” The connection I feel to Arlindo Cruz’s music is a reminder that, despite the distance and the different languages spoken, the struggle and the beauty of the African diaspora are the same. The pain, the pride, and the perseverance that are carried through the songs of our ancestors continue to live on today, in the music we create and share.

Top 5 Arlindo Cruz Tracks That Inspire Me

1. "O Show Tem Que Continuar"

This iconic track captures the essence of Cruz’s energy and musicality. Its upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm inspire me to bring the same level of passion and dynamism to my own performances. The song’s message of resilience and perseverance is something I try to channel in my music.

2. "Meu Lugar"

This beautiful samba has a nostalgic quality, reminding me of the importance of roots and belonging. The way Cruz expresses longing and belonging resonates deeply with me, as it encourages me to reflect on my own journey and the importance of honoring where I come from.

3. "Deixa a Vida Me Levar"

This track is the perfect example of Cruz’s mastery in blending melancholy with hope. It’s a song that reminds me of the power of music to heal and provide solace, especially when life seems uncertain. The easy groove of the song also provides the perfect backdrop for introspection before going on stage.

4. "Ainda É Cedo"

There is a timeless quality to this song. Cruz’s smooth vocal delivery combined with the infectious rhythm speaks to the perseverance and resilience required to keep moving forward. This track always gives me strength, and I strive to bring that same energy into my own work.

5. "A Voz do Morro"

This samba anthem encapsulates the essence of life in the favelas, celebrating the strength and pride of those who face adversity every day. Cruz’s powerful delivery of the social and cultural message in this song is something I look up to, and it encourages me to be more intentional with the messages I send through my own music.

The Cultural Connection: A Shared History

Listening to Arlindo Cruz is more than just a musical experience—it is a connection to a shared history that spans continents and generations. The African diaspora, which spans from Africa to Brazil, the United States, and beyond, is rooted in a history of displacement, struggle, and resilience. Cruz’s music reminds me that this struggle is not a solitary one. The stories of our ancestors are woven into the very fabric of our culture and music, and it’s through artists like Arlindo Cruz that we are reminded of that deep connection.

I’m continually amazed at how similar the cultural expressions are between Brazil and the African-American community. Both cultures are influenced by the same African roots, and the rhythms, melodies, and stories carry the same essence. Arlindo Cruz’s music embodies this shared history, making it all the more meaningful to me as an artist. His work doesn’t just inspire me—it connects me to something much larger than myself.

Conclusion

Arlindo Cruz’s legacy is one of resilience, culture, and connection. His music transcends time and borders, reaching into the hearts of listeners worldwide. For me, it’s not just the sound of his voice or the mastery of his musicianship that inspires—it’s the deep, cultural connection that runs through his music. By listening to his songs, I am reminded of the struggles of our ancestors and the power of music to heal, inspire, and unite. Cruz’s influence on my work as a vocalist and producer is immeasurable, and his music will continue to be a constant source of inspiration as I move forward in my own musical journey.

His legacy is not just a reflection of the Afro-Brazilian experience, but a testament to the universal struggle and strength of the African diaspora. As I continue to make music, Arlindo Cruz will always be one of my guiding lights, helping me to stay fresh, authentic, and connected to the stories that shape us all.

Written by Zacchae'us Paul

Dec. 1, 2024