In this episode, we discussed the composer, multi-instrumentalist, and musical innovator Hermeto Pascoal, who passed away in September 2025. The word "genius" is often misused, but it applies perfectly to describe the music of Hermeto, who once said, "There is music in everything; you just gotta find it."

We tried to summarize his vast discography, talking about some of his fundamental albums, such as "Zambumbê-bum-á", his previous work with Quarteto Novo, and we also shared clips from the documentary "Hermeto Campeão". Follow the accompanying playlist available on Spotify and our archive playlist, Brazuca Soundstrack.

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Every episode is a different song. This is the song today:

"Ovelha Negra" by Rita Lee

A folk rock ballad about someone expelled from their home for being the "black sheep" of the family suddenly became an anthem for the youth. "Ovelha Negra" also catapulted Rita Lee to stardom in Brazil, no longer an ex-Mutantes with a niche-oriented rock n' roll career, to eventually become the Queen of Brazilian pop. Nonetheless, many believe this song was not about the relationship with her father at all, but instead a direct response to her former bandmates. Closing the album "Fruto Proibido", Rita Lee was backed by her band Tutti Fruti, whose guitarist, Luis Sergio Carlini, came up with one of the most iconic rock solos in Brazilian music.

Check Translationsmith for a full translation of "Ovelha Negra" performed by Rita Lee, and hundreds of other Brazilian songs.

Salve! This is a trailer for our bonus episode exclusive for ⁠paid subscribers⁠!

Every episode is a different song. This is the song today:

"Lotus 72D" by Zé Roberto

The Lotus 72D was the Formula 1 World Championship-winning car driven by Emerson Fittipaldi in 1972. Inspired by watching the 1973 Brazilian Grand Prix in his hometown of São Paulo, an up-and-coming singer-songwriter penned a song about the iconic car.

Released as a single by RCA Victor, the track failed to gain much attention at the time. However, a sped-up version of the original resurfaced online in the 2000s, sparking renewed interest. In this episode, we attempt to unravel the mystery behind Zé Roberto and his recording of "Lotus 72D."