José Afonso – Cantares Do Andarilho

Released in 1968, Cantares do Andarilho marks a turning point in José Afonso’s career, as it is his first album composed entirely of original songs.

In this work, Zeca begins to move away from the traditional structures of Coimbra fado and asserts himself as a songwriter with a strong poetic and social voice. The lyrics reflect everyday life, freedom, and the human condition, carried by simple melodies that place emphasis on the words and their meaning. Backed by a restrained instrumental ensemble, the album maintains an austere yet deeply expressive sound. Cantares do Andarilho represents the beginning of a new artistic path, where Portuguese song becomes a vehicle for both reflection and resistance. A landmark in the history of Portuguese popular music.