Ina Wroldsen is best known for her vocals on Jax Jones’ “Breathe” and Calvin Harris’ “How Deep Is Your Love.” She just dropped a new single titled “Favela” with Brazilian producer/DJ Alok. This catchy summer dance track has a poignant message, and a beautiful lyric video to accompany it.
“Favela” is first and foremost infectiously catchy. Its use of Latin-style rhythm and wind instruments speaks to Alok’s production influence. Ina’s vocals are smooth and strong throughout, rising and dipping with a sporadically difficult melody.
What makes the song truly unique is the message carried throughout the track. It tells the story of a girl growing up in a ghetto in Brazil. Ina’s take on her story is refreshingly unique; the girl is portrayed as a hard-working, intelligent hero of her story, not as a victim. Ina uses lyrics such as “Born on the left side / Of this right-handed world” to artistically convey the girl’s struggle, but quickly couples it with the simple statement of: “She knows.” In this way, Ina maintains the intelligence and confidence of the character in her narration.
Speaking to the inspiration behind “Favela”, Ina says:
“I wrote ‘Favela’ after watching a documentary called Stuck, it focused on women in South America and the struggles they face. ‘Favela’ is my tribute to girls growing up in societies that don’t offer up the opportunities that a lot of us take for granted. This song closes in on a reality that is not mine, I am an outsider and an observer and I hope that I have treated this with the respect and dignity that it deserves. I truly believe that where you are born is just a matter of coincidence and women’s rights is a cause that is very close to my heart.”
The lyric video for “Favela” is just as artistic as the song itself, using sketched, paper cutouts in its animation style with bright colors and hand-drawn type. Its handmade look ties beautifully to the deeply poignant lyrics.
At the end of the lyric video, the protagonist is pictured with her journal open on the bed. The journal has the word “Favela” drawn in the styles shown throughout the video, with a picture of a girl ascending a staircase. This symbolism implies that the girl from the video dreams of her ascent out of her hardships, and on to something greater, past the favela.
If you’re looking for a late summer Latin track that’s something more than just a party anthem, look no further. “Favela” has it all: the beauty, rhythm, charm and talent – everything that makes the perfect summer hit. Watch the lyric video for “Favela” below:
