"Mas Que Nada" is a famous Brazilian song written by Jorge Ben, also known as Jorge Ben Jor. Here are some interesting facts about Jorge Ben and the song:
Jorge Ben Jor's Birth Name: Jorge Ben's full name is Jorge Duilio Lima Menezes. He adopted the stage name "Ben" in reference to his admiration for jazz musician Big Ben Webster.
"Mas Que Nada" Debut: Jorge Ben originally recorded "Mas Que Nada" for his 1963 album "Samba Esquema Novo." The song became one of his signature tracks.
Portuguese Lyrics: The song's lyrics are in Portuguese, and "Mas Que Nada" can be loosely translated to mean "But, of course" or "Yeah, right." It's a joyful and rhythmic expression of Brazilian culture.
International Recognition: "Mas Que Nada" gained international recognition when it was covered by Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66 in 1966. Sergio Mendes' version became a huge hit and helped introduce Brazilian music to a global audience.
Collaboration with Black Eyed Peas: In 2006, Jorge Ben Jor collaborated with the American hip-hop group Black Eyed Peas to re-record "Mas Que Nada." The modernized version featured Jorge Ben Jor's vocals alongside the Black Eyed Peas' members and became a worldwide success.
Cultural Impact: "Mas Que Nada" is considered an anthem of Brazilian music and culture. It has been covered and sampled by numerous artists from various genres over the years.
Influence on Samba-Rock: Jorge Ben is often credited with creating the "samba-rock" genre, which blends samba rhythms with rock and funk elements. "Mas Que Nada" is a prime example of this fusion.
Ongoing Career: Jorge Ben Jor has had a long and successful career, releasing numerous albums and continuing to perform live concerts even into the 21st century. His music has evolved over the years, incorporating different influences while maintaining his signature style.
Iconic Guitar Style: Jorge Ben is known for his distinctive guitar playing, characterized by his use of percussive and rhythmic patterns, which have influenced many guitarists around the world.
Cultural Legacy: Jorge Ben's contributions to Brazilian music and his influence on global music are significant. His ability to blend various musical styles and create catchy, danceable tunes like "Mas Que Nada" continues to inspire musicians and audiences alike.
"Mas Que Nada" remains a beloved song that captures the vibrant spirit of Brazil and has left a lasting impact on the world of music.