Qual é a história de... "FEEDBACK SONG FOR A DYING FRIEND"? (Legião Urbana)

Summary

This video explores the song 'Feedback Song for a Dying Friend' by Renato Russo, shedding light on seven fascinating curiosities behind the track. It delves into the meaning of the song's title, the unique translation of its lyrics by renowned writer Millôr Fernandes, and the innovative use of reverse tape effects. The video also touches on the influence of Indian music, the evolution of the lyrics, and the song's connection to both the American photographer Robert Mapplethorpe and Brazilian musician Cazuza, highlighting their battles with AIDS. It’s a deep dive into the creative process, the social context, and the emotional resonance of this iconic track.

Takeaways

• 😀 The title 'Feedback Song for a Dying Friend' is translated from Portuguese as 'Canção Resposta para um Amigo à Beira da Morte', which refers to a song for a friend near death.
• 😀 The song's lyrics were translated by renowned Brazilian writer Millôr Fernandes, who was personally chosen by Renato Russo for the task.
• 😀 The music's introduction features reversed tape effects that create a guitar-like sound, adding a unique sonic element to the track.
• 😀 Indian musical influences are present in the song, including sounds that resemble a sitar, achieved through a Korg keyboard preset.
• 😀 The original lyrics of the song were intended to be more controversial, titled 'Rapazes Católicos', and included references to Muslim and Arab conflicts, but were changed due to concerns about potential backlash.
• 😀 The track 'Feedback Song for a Dying Friend' was chosen as a replacement for the original lyrics after discussions with producer Dado Villa-Lobos, who suggested a less controversial theme.
• 😀 The song is connected to the AIDS crisis, with Renato Russo later revealing that it was also influenced by the story of Cazuza, who died from AIDS-related complications.
• 😀 The song's themes of love and loss reflect a relationship between two men, using metaphorical language that anticipates the emerging AIDS epidemic in the 1980s.
• 😀 Renato Russo stated that the song was not only dedicated to Cazuza but also acknowledges the broader struggle against the AIDS epidemic during that time.
• 😀 Renato Russo used the song to position himself as an artist speaking out on issues of AIDS and the LGBTQ+ community, emphasizing the importance of being honest about the disease while rejecting martyrdom.

Q & A

What is the significance of the song title *Feedback Song for a Dying Friend*?

The title reflects the somber and reflective nature of the song, which can be translated as 'Canção Resposta para um Amigo à Beira da Morte' in Portuguese. It suggests a response or farewell to a friend near death.

Who translated the song lyrics into Portuguese, and what was Renato Russo's connection to this person?

The lyrics were translated by the Brazilian writer Millôr Fernandes, a close collaborator of Renato Russo. Russo had always dreamed of having his lyrics translated by Millôr, and the translation was included in the album's booklet.

What innovative sound technique was used in the introduction of the song?

The song's introduction features a reverse tape technique. When played backward, it resembles a guitar being played, showcasing the band's experimental approach to sound.

How does Indian music influence the song?

The song incorporates elements of Indian music, specifically through the use of a keyboard preset that simulates the sound of a sitar, creating an Eastern musical atmosphere.

Why did the band decide to change the original lyrics of the song?

The original lyrics, titled *Rapazes Católicos* (Catholic Boys), were deemed too controversial due to their violent and politically charged content. The band decided to alter the theme following the backlash against *The Satanic Verses* in 1989, and the lyrics were rewritten to reflect a more personal and emotional narrative.

What was the original subject of the song's lyrics before they were changed?

The original lyrics described violent confrontations, deaths, and a controversial mix of religious and political themes, which the band felt could be misunderstood and offensive at the time.

How did Renato Russo adapt the song’s dedication from Robert Mapplethorpe to Cazuza?

Initially, the song was dedicated to Robert Mapplethorpe, the American photographer who died from AIDS. However, Renato Russo later saw that the lyrics could also fit Cazuza, another artist who died of AIDS, and changed the dedication accordingly.

What is the relationship between *Feedback Song for a Dying Friend* and the AIDS epidemic?

The song’s lyrics touch on themes of AIDS and the LGBTQ+ experience, reflecting the fear and uncertainty surrounding the epidemic in the 1980s. Renato Russo acknowledged the song's role in addressing the issue through the lens of personal and societal struggles.

Why is the song’s connection to AIDS significant in the context of the 1980s?

During the 1980s, AIDS was a major health crisis and societal concern. Artists, including Cazuza and Renato Russo, used their music to address the epidemic and its impact on their communities, making *Feedback Song for a Dying Friend* a timely and important artistic statement.

How did Renato Russo view his responsibility as an artist in relation to the AIDS epidemic?

Renato Russo saw it as important to use his platform as an artist to address the AIDS epidemic, stating that he wanted to express his feelings about the disease and its societal implications, despite being cautious about being seen as a martyr for the LGBTQ+ cause.