How Rita Lee's death made me realize that I can live multiple lives in just one

Imagine being in Argentina during Maradona's death? Or in England during the Queen's death?

The singer Rita Lee, who died last week, was known as "the queen of Brazilian rock", although a good part of her work fits within MPB (or "Brasilidades", which means Brazilian musical styles).

While I write this text, I am living in Rio de Janeiro, the birthplace of samba, bossa nova, and funk. Therefore, I didn't imagine the extent of the commotion she would generate here. Of course, this is mainly due to the magnitude of the artist rather than her musical style. Nevertheless, some impressive things happened:

One of Rio de Janeiro's most famous sambas, Samba Independente dos Bons Costumes (SIBC), played two Rita Lee songs on Thursdays at Fundição Progresso.

The vocalist was honest. "We rehearsed a lot in the last few hours." It was noticeable that she was looking at the lyrics at certain moments. An incredible tribute that I did not expect to see in this samba.

Rita Lee played everywhere I went. Whether it was in a mere restaurant for lunch, in a bar at night, or at a party, there were "Mania de Você", "Ovelha Negra" and "Lança Perfume" playing.

Getting into an Uber, Rita Lee. Young people gathered in the square with guitars, Rita Lee. Rita Lee is everywhere at the same time.

Living this Rita Lee experience in Rio de Janeiro made me realize something incredible about the nomadic life. If I were in São Paulo, I would find it natural if she played all the time. After all, she is from São Paulo.

Experiencing Rita Lee's death in Rio was an experience I could only have because I was living in the city during those days. I could better grasp the magnitude of her work, impact, and legacy.

How many other similar and unique experiences will I not be able to have? Imagine being in Argentina during Maradona's death? Or in England during the Queen's death?

Now I can live multiple lives in just one. I will share more of these experiences with you in future editions of this newsletter.