About the song
“Mas que Nada,” a vibrant anthem of Brazilian music, emerged from the creative genius of Jorge Ben (now Jorge Ben Jor) in 1963. Originally featured on his debut album *Samba Esquema Novo*, this infectious samba funk quickly became a sensation in Brazil and beyond. Its rhythmic pulse and exuberant vocals captured the spirit of Rio de Janeiro’s vibrant musical landscape.
The song’s genesis can be traced back to elements from José Prates’ 1958 track “Nanã Imborô,” where key melodic motifs and vocalizations laid the groundwork for Jorge Ben’s interpretation. This fusion of Afro-Brazilian rhythms and contemporary samba stylings provided a rich tapestry for Ben’s lyrical celebration of life and spirit (*alegria*).
In 1966, “Mas que Nada” gained even greater prominence when Sérgio Mendes and Brasil ’66 released their iconic cover version on *Herb Alpert Presents Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’66*. Mendes’ arrangement infused the song with a breezy bossa nova vibe, complemented by Lani Hall’s spirited vocals. This rendition not only captured the hearts of listeners in the United States but also climbed the Billboard charts, reaching number 47 on the Hot 100 and number four on the Easy Listening chart.
Outside Brazil, Mendes’ interpretation became synonymous with “Mas que Nada,” solidifying its status as a global hit and a hallmark of Brazilian music. Its infectious chorus and upbeat tempo made it a favorite in clubs, parties, and soundtracks, embedding itself into popular culture.
In recognition of its enduring influence, “Mas que Nada” was inducted into the Latin Grammy Hall of Fame in 2013, underscoring its status as a timeless classic. Over the years, the song has been revisited and reinterpreted by numerous artists, each adding their own flair while paying homage to its infectious original spirit.
From its humble beginnings in Jorge Ben’s debut to Sérgio Mendes’ chart-topping cover, “Mas que Nada” continues to embody the essence of Brazilian music—joyful, rhythmic, and undeniably infectious. Its legacy transcends borders, uniting listeners worldwide in the universal language of music and dance.
Video
Lyrics
Oariá raiô
Obá obá obá
Oariá raiô
Obá obá obá
Mas que nada
Sai da minha frente
Que eu quero passar
Pois o samba está animado
O que eu quero é sambar
Este samba
Que é misto de maracatu
É samba de preto velho
Samba de preto tu
Mas que nada
Um samba como este tão legal
Você não vai querer
Que eu chegue no final
Oariá raiô
Obá obá obá
Oariá raiô
Obá obá obá
Mas que nada
Sai da minha frente
Que eu quero passar
Pois o samba está animado
O que eu quero é sambar
Este samba
Que é misto de maracatu
É samba de preto velho
Samba de preto tú
Mas que nada
Um samba como este tão legal
Você não vai querer
Que eu chegue no final
Oariá raiô
Obá obá obá
Oariá raiô
Obá obá obá
Obá obá obá
Obá obá obá
Obá obá obá
Obá obá obá