The Cariocas hold their all time favorites samba songs close to their hearts, just like their most cherished traditions. The art of Samba and its rhythms are nowadays associated to Brazilians and the country of the most vibrant carnival on earth. However, samba songs have its root in ancient mother Africa. In Brazil, samba songs were first introduced by the Afro-Brazilians who came to the impecunious slums bordering Rio following the slavery abolition. Every year the samba theme is based on the samba song presented at the Carnival. Schools get to choose these samba songs. They choose themes ranging from history, sports and politics.

Usually themes revolve around present events or issues pertaining to Brazil or Rio. Samba songs have an important role while judging events. Special emphasis is always given to the tunes and lines. The chosen Samba song is kept confidential till sixty days prior to the Carnival when copies are publicly sold. So, the next time you visit Rio Carnival, be sure to pay special attention to the words sung at the Sambadrome.