Orality, performance poetry and rap songs as collective manifestation

Abstract

This paper aims to analyze the song of Racionais MC’s, entitled Negro Drama, comparing its ideological speech – filled with oral and poetic marks – with the song of another Brazilian MC, Criolo, entitled Não existe amor em SP, whose esthetics and music language reveal the essence of human soul. The both lyrics show the violence of the urban periphery in São Paulo (Brazil), the troubles and dangers in the shantytown. The both MCs make their performances in angars, far from the mainstream. In the Racionais’ lyrics, the MC uses his voice for social criticism and to speak out against the system. The background scratch song reflects the conscience of the listeners role. In the Criolo song, the rhythm shows melodic multiplicity. The artist express the loneliness and the helplessness sense of the residents of São Paulo City.