AFRO-BRAZILIANNESS, POPULAR LITERATURE AND RELIGIOSITY IN THE SONG “NÃO MEXE COMIGO” FROM THE ALBUM CARTA DE AMOR BY MARIA BETHÂNIA

Abstract

The song “Não Mexe Comigo” (Don’t Mess With Me), performed by Maria Bethânia, is an emblematic work of Brazilian Popular Music (MPB) that combines elements of Brazilian literature, especially oral tradition, and Afro-Brazilian religiosity, constituting a space of symbolic resistance and cultural affirmation. The song, structured as a prayer, uses repetition and the power of declamation to evoke a spirituality linked to Candomblé, Umbanda and ancestral knowledge. The verse “I don’t walk alone” transcends the literal and is configured as an expression of faith and the presence of the orixás, caboclos and spiritual guides, in a profound relationship with the popular mystical tradition. This vocal performance by Bethânia is part of the confluence of poetry, music and ritual, approaching cordel literature, litanies and popular autos. To analyze the song, bibliographic research with comparative analysis was used, which allows us to understand how Brazilian popular music can function as a means of valuing black culture and African-origin religiosity, which are often marginalized. The work dialogues with the works of artists such as Rita Benneditto (Tecnomacumba), Alcione and Martinho da Vila, who also integrate religiosity and ancestry into their songs. By merging text and ritual, Maria Bethânia reaffirms the role of music as a sacred and poetic language that transmits collective wisdom and spiritual experiences. The main researchers were: Borgéa (2015), Martino da Vila (2004), Lima (2009), Nascimento (2022) and Azevedo (2018).