No mais recente e aguardado episódio do podcast “Café Com…”, a Camões Radio teve o privilégio de receber um dos nomes mais singulares e autênticos da música portuguesa: João Moraes, o artista conhecido por O Gajo. Numa conversa franca e reveladora, O Gajo abriu o seu coração para falar sobre o seu percurso, a sua filosofia de vida e, claro, o seu novo e aclamado álbum, “Trovoada”. Este é um olhar aprofundado sobre um artista que não tem medo de ser ele mesmo, de usar a sua arte como forma de expressão e de se conectar com as suas raízes de uma forma moderna e impactante. A jornada de O Gajo é uma inspiração, e a sua música um convite à reflexão.

A Essência de O Gajo: Entre o Nome e a Pessoa

A entrevista começou com uma questão fundamental: a origem do nome artístico O Gajo. João Moraes explicou que o nome “gajo” tem uma ressonância muito pessoal com a sua própria identidade. Enquanto “João Moraes” foi uma escolha dos seus pais, “O Gajo” é uma invenção sua, uma forma de se assumir como é na sua essência. A informalidade e a simplicidade são características que definem o gajo, e ele sentiu que este nome é a maneira perfeita de se apresentar sem barreiras. É um nome comum, quase uma gíria, que se tornou um símbolo de uma abordagem artística sem pretensões.

Este termo, tão familiar na boca dos portugueses, tornou-se o nome de um projeto que, à semelhança da sua pasta de dentes de há uns anos atrás, está em todo o lado. O Gajo é um termo simples e funcional, que transcende a formalidade e estabelece uma ligação direta com o público. O Gajo é, portanto, mais do que um nome; é uma declaração de identidade, um reflexo de uma pessoa que valoriza a autenticidade acima de tudo.

“Trovoada”: A Metáfora Musical de O Gajo

O foco principal da entrevista virou-se para o seu novo álbum, “Trovoada”. O Gajo partilhou a história por trás do título, revelando que este é muito mais do que um simples nome. A palavra “trovoada” evoca o som de algo que se aproxima, algo que pode ser assustador, algo que, nos tempos que correm, se assemelha ao som da guerra. João Moraes, com a sua sensibilidade artística, sentiu a necessidade de canalizar a sua preocupação com o mundo para a sua música.

“Trovoada”, segundo O Gajo, é a sua resposta musical aos tempos conturbados que vivemos. Ele acredita que a arte tem a responsabilidade de expressar os sentimentos da sua época, e este álbum é a sua forma de o fazer. Não é um álbum que traz uma energia puramente positiva, mas sim uma energia que reflete a realidade, que provoca a reflexão. Esta tempestade de emoções e de sonoridades traduz-se em música que é, ao mesmo tempo, poderosa e vulnerável, um retrato honesto do mundo aos olhos de O Gajo.

A palavra “tempestade” em si, tão utilizada para descrever a sua música, é para O Gajo uma fonte de inspiração criativa. É uma energia tempestiva, que vem de um percurso no rock, de uma música mais pesada. A sua forma de compor, de tocar viola, é tempestiva, longe da bonança. É uma abordagem que requer uma energia adicional, uma força que se sente em cada nota e cada melodia. A tempestade, para o gajo, não é um inimigo, mas sim uma ferramenta para expressar uma mensagem com força e impacto.

A Jornada de “Trovoada” e a Maturidade de O Gajo

Durante a entrevista, João Moraes abordou a questão da maturidade artística. Ele afirmou que, sem dúvida, “Trovoada” é um álbum mais maduro do que os anteriores. Ele espera que cada novo disco de O Gajo seja um passo em frente, uma adição de maturidade, de novas influências e de uma visão mais analítica do mundo. No entanto, para o gajo, a melhor forma de medir a maturidade não é por si, mas pela forma como o trabalho final se superou.

Os músicos que trabalharam com O Gajo neste projeto superaram as suas expectativas. O resultado é um disco que, na sua opinião, já deixa um legado. O Gajo chegou a afirmar, numa nota de humor e de reflexão profunda, que se morresse amanhã, este disco já seria uma marca forte, que diz muito daquilo que ele é. “Trovoada” representa o topo daquilo que ele sentiu que fez até hoje. É o resultado de um processo de crescimento pessoal e profissional, de um artista que continua a evoluir, a ouvir mais, e a ter mais prática musical. Este é o álbum em que O Gajo atinge um novo patamar de excelência, deixando a sua marca na música portuguesa.

O Momento que Definiu o Caminho de O Gajo

A transição de uma carreira instrumental para um projeto vocal foi um ponto crucial na carreira de O Gajo. Numa pergunta sobre o momento em que soube que estava na direção certa, João Moraes respondeu sem hesitação: foi durante o primeiro ensaio com o quinteto de músicos que se juntou a ele para a residência artística. Este prémio, da Fundação INATEL Música, proporcionou um espaço de criação onde a magia aconteceu. Ao juntar estes músicos, O Gajo sentiu que aquele era o caminho. A partir daí, o processo de composição, gravação e masterização foi um prazer, um testemunho do quão certo ele se sentia sobre este novo formato.

A Voz de O Gajo: Uma Arma Necessária

Depois de um percurso meramente instrumental, O Gajo decide dar voz às suas composições. A entrevista aprofundou este regresso ao canto. João explicou que, com a sua experiência de 30 anos no rock e punk rock, aprendeu que não é preciso ser um cantor para dizer o que se pensa. Ele não se considera um cantor, mas sente que tem algo para dizer. Inspirado por grandes influências como José Mário Branco e José Afonso, ele vê a música como uma arma, uma ferramenta para expressar e intervir. Num mundo e num país como o nosso, ele sentiu que o instrumental já não era suficiente. As palavras vieram para adicionar clareza à sua mensagem.

A transição de O Gajo para um projeto com voz foi, portanto, uma necessidade. João Moraes procura a palavra certa, a melodia que a complementa, um processo que é mais lento, mas que enriquece a sua arte. No início, o projeto foi instrumental para se libertar do processo complexo de escrita. Foi um período valioso para criar narrativas instrumentais. Mas agora, a palavra veio para clarificar as ideias, para dar mais força à mensagem. O Gajo gosta de não repetir fórmulas, e a voz é a nova camada de exploração no seu trabalho.

A Espinha Dorsal de O Gajo: Viola Campaniça

A entrevista não poderia deixar de destacar o papel central da viola campaniça no projeto de O Gajo. João Moraes descreve-a como a grande descoberta e a espinha dorsal de tudo. Foi a viola campaniça que o fez encontrar uma geografia para o seu projeto, uma ligação à terra, a Portugal. Depois de tocar guitarras estrangeiras, a viola campaniça foi a ponte entre a sua música e o país onde vive. A partir daí, ela tornou-se a grande protagonista, com o seu som único e a sua rica história. A viola campaniça é a base de toda a sonoridade de O Gajo, um instrumento que ele continua a explorar e a reinventar ao longo de seis discos.

Para o artista, o som da viola campaniça é sempre o mesmo, mas a forma como ele a explora é que muda. Depois de 10 anos de projeto, O Gajo continua a reinventar-se para não ser sempre a mesma coisa. Daí a voz, daí os instrumentos que vão aparecendo, mas o som da viola é sempre aquele que se reconhece de imediato. A viola campaniça, com a sua sonoridade característica, é o fio condutor da obra de O Gajo.

As Raízes e a Ancestralidade na Música de O Gajo

Além da viola campaniça, o novo álbum “Trovoada” introduz um diálogo com outros instrumentos tradicionais portugueses, como o adufe, a gaita de foles e as sanfonas. O Gajo identifica o seu projeto como folk, e esses instrumentos têm a ver com a mesma ideia inicial da viola campaniça: ligar o som à terra, à ancestralidade portuguesa.

Para O Gajo, era muito importante trazer esses instrumentos antigos, com muita história, para uma nova era. O seu desafio é mostrar o que é que se pode fazer com eles para além da música tradicional. Ele não repete as fórmulas da música tradicional, mas constrói uma nova história com eles. É um projeto que honra as raízes enquanto aponta para o futuro, um balanço perfeito entre o passado e o presente, a marca de um artista que não tem medo de inovar.

A Mensagem de O Gajo e a Reflexão Necessária

Quando questionado sobre o que espera que os ouvintes sintam ao ouvir “Trovoada”, João Moraes respondeu que espera que se compreenda que vivemos em tempos de reflexão. Ele acredita que precisamos de ser pessoas críticas, que analisam bem as coisas para não fazer escolhas erradas. A música de O Gajo é um veículo de informação, que leva as pessoas a refletir não só sobre instrumentos quase esquecidos, mas também sobre a mensagem que ele traz, sobre o mundo em que vivemos hoje.

A mensagem de O Gajo é sobre as guerras, sobre as frentes extremas que ganham terreno, sobre a necessidade de questionar mensagens populistas. “Trovoada” é um convite a fruir, a gostar e a refletir sobre esses temas. É um disco que tem conteúdo, mensagem e atmosferas sonoras, uma prova de que a música pode ser mais do que entretenimento; pode ser uma ferramenta de mudança, um espelho da sociedade.

O Futuro de O Gajo: Celebrar o Legado e Criar o Próximo

Com o novo álbum já nas ruas, os próximos passos de O Gajo são claros. O projeto sempre viveu muito mais do palco do que do estúdio, e o objetivo agora é tocar o máximo possível. Mas João Moraes já está a delinear o que vai acontecer em 2026, um ano especial, o décimo aniversário do projeto. As comemorações vão incluir concertos especiais. Além disso, 2026 será o ano em que ele juntará as peças do próximo disco, que já anda a ser “cozinhado”.

Já se sentem “ventanias” e uma “tempestade” a caminhar em direção ao próximo trabalho. O Gajo continuará a sua busca por levar os seus instrumentos para sítios onde eles ainda não tenham estado. Este é o seu desafio constante, a sua forma de se manter relevante e de continuar a explorar o potencial dos instrumentos que ele tanto ama.

Uma Reflexão Final: O Coração e o Bolso de O Gajo

Para terminar a conversa, O Gajo partilhou um conselho que ele próprio gostaria de ter recebido no início da sua carreira. Ele mencionou, com um toque de ironia, que o pior conselho é “segue o teu coração”, porque isso pode levar a uma vida de instabilidade. No entanto, ele não mudaria nada na sua vida. Ele tem um coração cheio, mesmo que o bolso possa estar vazio. Ele prefere ter um coração cheio com um bolso vazio do que o contrário, e é com essa filosofia que ele vive e cria a sua música.

A sua passagem pela escola de artes António Rui em 1988 foi um momento crucial, onde ele conheceu pessoas que revolucionaram a sua maneira de pensar. O Gajo é o resultado de uma jornada de descobertas e de escolhas. No final, João Moraes, o gajo, deixou uma mensagem para a comunidade portuguesa: consumam a arte que se faz em Portugal, um país com muito talento em todas as áreas. Ele acredita que o país pode conquistar o mundo e que as raízes são a nossa força. Uma mensagem poderosa, que resume a filosofia de vida e de arte de O Gajo.

An In-Depth Conversation with O Gajo: The Art, The Message, and “Trovoada”

In the latest compelling episode of the “Café Com…” podcast, Camões Radio had the immense pleasure of hosting one of the most unique and authentic artists in Portuguese music: João Moraes, known artistically as O Gajo. In a candid and revealing conversation, O Gajo offered a deep dive into his personal journey, his artistic philosophy, and, of course, his latest acclaimed album, “Trovoada”. This is an essential listen for anyone who wants to understand the man behind the music, a musician who is unafraid to be himself, to use his art as a powerful vehicle for expression, and to connect with his roots in a modern and impactful way. The journey of O Gajo is truly an inspiration, and his music is a powerful invitation to reflect on the world around us.

The Persona of O Gajo: Unpacking a Name and an Identity

The interview began with a fundamental question: the origin of the artistic name **O Gajo**. **João Moraes** explained that the name “gajo” (which translates to “the guy” or “the dude”) resonates deeply with his own identity. While “João Moraes” was the name his parents gave him, “O Gajo” was his own idea, a way for him to embrace who he is at his core. Informality and simplicity are key characteristics that define **O Gajo**, and he felt that this name was the perfect way to present himself without any pretense or barriers. It is a common, almost slang-like term, that has become a powerful symbol of his artistic approach.

This term, so familiar in the mouths of Portuguese people, has become the name of a project that, much like a once-popular toothpaste, seems to be everywhere. **O Gajo** is a simple and functional term that transcends formality and establishes a direct, intimate connection with the audience. **O Gajo** is, therefore, more than just a name; it is a statement of identity, a reflection of a person who values authenticity above all else. This moniker, chosen by **João Moraes** himself, is a deliberate choice to set his artistic persona apart from the more formal identity of the man. It’s a name that feels natural and unforced, perfectly encapsulating the down-to-earth nature of the artist. The choice of **O Gajo** was a conscious decision to break down the walls between the performer and the listener, inviting everyone to feel like they are part of a familiar and informal conversation.

“Trovoada”: The Musical Metaphor of O Gajo

The main focus of the interview shifted to his new album, “Trovoada” (Thunderstorm). **O Gajo** shared the compelling story behind the title, revealing that it is much more than a simple name. The word “trovoada” evokes the sound of something approaching, something that can be frightening, something that, in our current times, eerily resembles the sound of war. **João Moraes**, with his artistic sensitivity, felt a profound need to channel his concern for the state of the world into his music. He saw the unsettling events unfolding daily on television news and knew his art had to respond to it. The rumbling of a thunderstorm, a sound of immense power and potential destruction, became the perfect metaphor for the turmoil he was observing.

“Trovoada”, according to **O Gajo**, is his musical response to the troubled times we live in. He believes that art has a responsibility to express the feelings of its era, and this album is his way of fulfilling that role. It is not an album that brings a purely positive energy, but rather an energy that reflects reality and provokes deep thought. This storm of emotions and sounds translates into music that is both powerful and vulnerable, an honest portrayal of the world through the eyes of **O Gajo**. The creative process for this album was deeply intertwined with his reflections on current events, making the music a direct commentary on the socio-political climate. He uses his sound to capture the sense of unease and the need for shelter, much like what people feel when a powerful storm is approaching.

The word “tempestade” (tempest or storm) itself, so often used to describe his music, is a source of creative inspiration for **O Gajo**. It represents a forceful energy that comes from his background in rock, from a heavier, more intense style of music. His way of composing and playing the viola is tempestuous, far from a calm and peaceful approach. It is an approach that requires an additional surge of energy, a force that can be felt in every single note and melody. The storm, for **O Gajo**, is not an enemy, but rather a tool to express a message with raw power and immense impact. He finds beauty in the chaos and uses it to forge a sound that is both authentic and resonant. The music of **O Gajo** embodies this tempestuous spirit, capturing the unpredictable, powerful, and ultimately moving nature of a storm.

The Journey of “Trovoada” and the Creative Maturity of O Gajo

During the interview, **João Moraes** addressed the question of artistic maturity. He stated that, without a doubt, “Trovoada” is a more mature album than its predecessors. He hopes that each new album by **O Gajo** represents a step forward, an addition of maturity, new influences, and a more analytical view of the world. However, for **O Gajo**, the best way to measure this maturity is not by his own judgment, but by how the final work surpassed his expectations. He felt that this album not only met but exceeded what he hoped it would become. The musicians who collaborated with **O Gajo** on this project surpassed his expectations as well, bringing their own unique energy and skill to the table. The result is a record that, in his opinion, already leaves a lasting legacy.

**O Gajo** even went on to state, with a touch of humor and profound reflection, that if he were to die tomorrow, this album would be a powerful mark that says a lot about who he is. “Trovoada” represents the pinnacle of what he feels he has accomplished to date. It is the culmination of a process of personal and professional growth for **João Moraes**, an artist who continues to evolve, listen to more music, and gain more practical experience. This is the album where **O Gajo** reaches a new level of excellence, leaving his undeniable mark on the landscape of Portuguese music. The creative journey to this album was one of constant self-improvement and a relentless pursuit of artistic perfection. **O Gajo**’s dedication to his craft is evident in every track, and the final product is a testament to his artistic vision. This maturity is not just about technical skill but also about a deeper understanding of his own voice and the message he wants to convey. It’s a maturation of both the artist and the man, resulting in a body of work that is both beautiful and significant. The collaborative spirit on this project allowed **O Gajo** to push his boundaries and create something truly special. He believes the shared energy of the musicians elevated the music to a new level, making it the most important work of his career so far. The legacy of **O Gajo** will be defined by albums like “Trovoada,” which showcase his growth and his commitment to authentic expression. The album is a testament to the power of collaboration and the beauty that can arise when talented people come together with a shared vision. For **O Gajo**, this project was more than just another album; it was a defining moment in his career.

The Defining Moment in the Career of O Gajo

The transition from a purely instrumental career to a vocal project was a crucial turning point for **O Gajo**. When asked about the moment he knew he was on the right path, **João Moraes** answered without hesitation: it was during the very first rehearsal with the quintet of musicians who joined him for an artistic residency. This prize, from the INATEL Music Foundation, provided a space for creation where true magic happened. By bringing these musicians together, **O Gajo** felt that he had found his true direction. From that moment on, the entire process of composition, recording, and mastering was a joy, a clear sign of how right he felt about this new musical format. The synergy in the room was palpable, and he knew he had made the correct choice. The collaboration felt natural and effortless, and he knew he was embarking on a new and exciting phase of his artistic life. This pivotal moment validated his decision to evolve his sound and embrace new creative avenues. For **O Gajo**, this experience confirmed that his new direction was not just a temporary change but a definitive shift in his artistic journey.

The Voice of O Gajo: A Necessary Weapon

After a purely instrumental journey, **O Gajo** made the deliberate decision to add vocals to his compositions. The interview delved into this return to singing. **João Moraes** explained that his 30 years in rock and punk rock taught him a vital lesson: you don’t need to be a perfect singer to say what you think. He doesn’t consider himself a great vocalist, but he feels he has something important to say. Inspired by major influences like José Mário Branco and José Afonso, he sees music as a weapon, a tool for expressing and intervening. In a world and a country like ours, he felt that instrumental music alone was no longer enough. Words were needed to add clarity to his message and make his statement more direct. He felt a deep-seated need to connect with his audience on a more explicit, lyrical level. The addition of vocals was not just a stylistic choice but a philosophical one, a way to make his art more potent and its message more undeniable. The voice became an extension of his viola, a new instrument for storytelling and social commentary. **O Gajo**’s decision to sing was a brave and necessary one, driven by his conviction that his art needed to be more than just atmospheric; it needed to be clear and purposeful. He found that the spoken word allowed him to tackle complex themes with a directness that instrumental music, however expressive, could not fully capture.

The transition for **O Gajo** was therefore a necessity. **João Moraes** meticulously searches for the right word and the perfect melody to complement it—a process that is slower but enriches his art. In the beginning, the project was purely instrumental as a way to liberate himself from the complex process of writing lyrics. It was a valuable period for creating instrumental narratives and sonic atmospheres. But now, words have come to clarify his ideas and give his message more power. **O Gajo** likes to avoid repeating formulas, and the voice is the new layer of exploration in his work. He is constantly seeking new ways to challenge himself and his audience, and the addition of vocals is the latest step in that evolution. It is a testament to his versatility and his willingness to grow as an artist. This new direction for **O Gajo** proves that his art is dynamic and ever-changing, a reflection of his constant intellectual and emotional development. He is not content to rest on his past successes but is always looking to the future. The inclusion of lyrics allows **O Gajo** to create a deeper, more profound connection with his listeners, sharing his thoughts and feelings in a way that is both personal and universal. It’s a new chapter for the artist, and one that is sure to leave a lasting impression on the music world. The words he chooses are a testament to his honesty and his commitment to his craft, and they make his music even more powerful. **O Gajo**’s art is a journey of self-discovery, and the addition of vocals is the latest milestone on that journey.

The Backbone of O Gajo: The Viola Campaniça

The interview could not have been complete without highlighting the central role of the viola campaniça in **O Gajo**’s project. **João Moraes** describes it as his great discovery and the backbone of everything. It was the **viola campaniça** that allowed him to find a “geography” for his project, a tangible connection to the land and to Portugal itself. After years of playing foreign-made guitars, the **viola campaniça** became the bridge between his music and the country where he lives. From that moment on, it became the main protagonist, with its unique sound and rich history. The **viola campaniça** is the foundation of **O Gajo**’s entire soundscape, an instrument that he continues to explore and reinvent over the course of six albums. For the artist, the sound of the viola campaniça is always recognizable, but the way he explores it constantly changes. After 10 years of the project, **O Gajo** continues to reinvent himself to avoid sounding repetitive. This is why he adds vocals, and this is why other instruments appear on his albums, but the sound of the viola is always the one you immediately recognize. The **viola campaniça**, with its characteristic and soulful sound, is the common thread that runs through all of **O Gajo**’s work, giving his music a unique and unmistakably Portuguese identity. It is a tribute to his heritage and a celebration of a a rich musical tradition that he is helping to preserve and evolve.

Roots and Ancestry in the Music of O Gajo

In addition to the **viola campaniça**, the new album “Trovoada” introduces a dialogue with other traditional Portuguese instruments, such as the *adufe*, the *gaita de foles* (bagpipes), and the *sanfonas* (hurdy-gurdies). **O Gajo** identifies his project as folk, and these instruments are connected to the same initial idea of the **viola campaniça**: to link the sound to the land, to Portuguese ancestry. For **O Gajo**, it was very important to bring these ancient instruments, with so much history, into a new era. His challenge is to show what can be done with them beyond traditional music. He does not simply repeat the formulas of traditional music; instead, he builds a new story with them. It is a project that honors its roots while looking towards the future, a perfect balance between the past and the present, and the mark of an artist who is not afraid to innovate. This fusion of traditional sounds with modern, creative arrangements is what makes the music of **O Gajo** so compelling and fresh. He is not just preserving history; he is actively creating a new chapter for these instruments, ensuring their relevance for future generations. The inclusion of these instruments adds layers of texture and depth to his music, creating a sound that is both familiar and entirely new. **O Gajo**’s work is a testament to the fact that tradition and innovation can coexist and flourish together, creating something truly special and meaningful. The music of **O Gajo** is a bridge between generations, a conversation between the past and the present, and a powerful statement of cultural pride.

The Message of O Gajo: The Call for Reflection

When asked what he hopes listeners will feel when they listen to “Trovoada”, **João Moraes** responded that he hopes they will understand that we live in a time that calls for deep reflection. He believes that we need to be critical thinkers, who analyze things carefully in order to make the right choices. The music of **O Gajo** is a vehicle for information, prompting people to reflect not only on nearly-forgotten instruments but also on the message he brings and the world we live in today. The lyrics and the music work together to create a sense of urgency and a call to action, urging listeners to engage with the world around them rather than simply accepting it. **O Gajo**’s music is a protest and a plea, wrapped in a beautiful, compelling soundscape. It is a powerful reminder that music can be a force for good, a way to challenge the status quo and inspire change.

The message of **O Gajo** is about war, about the rise of extremist factions, and about the need to question populist messages. “Trovoada” is an invitation to enjoy, to love, and to reflect on these important themes. It is an album that is rich in content, message, and sonic atmospheres, proving that music can be more than just entertainment; it can be a tool for change, a mirror held up to society. The music of **O Gajo** is a powerful testament to the artist’s commitment to social justice and his belief that art has the power to make a difference. It is a work of great emotional depth and intellectual rigor, and it will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on anyone who listens to it. The album is a testament to the power of one voice to make a difference and to challenge people to think more deeply about the world around them. For **O Gajo**, music is a way to make sense of the world, and he shares his insights with his listeners, hoping to inspire them to do the same.

The Future for O Gajo: Celebrating the Legacy and Creating the Next

With the new album out, the next steps for **O Gajo** are clear. The project has always thrived much more on stage than in the studio, and the goal now is to play as many concerts as possible. But **João Moraes** is already outlining what will happen in 2026, a special year that will mark the project’s tenth anniversary. The celebrations will include special commemorative concerts. Furthermore, 2026 will be the year he begins to put together the pieces of his next album, which is already in the “oven.” He feels “gusts of wind” and a “tempest” already brewing for his next work. **O Gajo** will continue his quest to take his instruments to places they have never been before. This is his constant challenge, his way of staying relevant and continuing to explore the potential of the instruments he loves so much. His future is a blank canvas, full of possibilities, and he is eager to see where his creative journey will take him next. The next chapter for **O Gajo** promises to be just as exciting and innovative as the last, and his fans are eagerly awaiting what he will create next. The tenth anniversary is not just a milestone; it is a new beginning, a chance for **O Gajo** to reflect on his past and look forward to his future. He remains committed to his unique artistic vision and to using his music to inspire and challenge his audience. The journey of **O Gajo** is far from over, and the best is yet to come.

A Final Reflection: The Heart and Pockets of O Gajo

To conclude the conversation, **O Gajo** shared a piece of advice he wished he had received at the beginning of his career. He mentioned, with a touch of irony, that the worst advice is “follow your heart,” because it can lead to a life of instability. However, he wouldn’t change anything about his own life. He has a full heart, even if his pockets might be empty. He prefers to have a full heart with empty pockets than the other way around, and it is with this philosophy that he lives and creates his music. His time at the António Rui art school in 1988 was a crucial moment where he met people who revolutionized his way of thinking. **O Gajo** is the result of a journey of discovery and choice. In the end, **João Moraes**, the gajo, left a powerful message for the Portuguese community: consume the art that is made in Portugal, a country rich in talent in all areas. He believes that the country can conquer the world and that our roots are our strength. It was a powerful message that perfectly summarizes the life and artistic philosophy of **O Gajo**. He is a true artist, dedicated to his craft and to his country, and his music is a testament to his passion and his vision. For **O Gajo**, art is a way of life, and he shares his heart and his soul with his audience through every note and every word. He is an inspiration to all who aspire to live a life of authenticity and purpose. The conversation with **O Gajo** was more than just an interview; it was a a profound and moving exploration of the human spirit.