They Don't Care About Us

Monday, June 30, 2014
'They Don't Care About Us' is the title of one of Michael Jackson's countless hits.


During the last two days we have visited the area in Salvador called Pelourinho. It's a local African-Brazilian area with shops, bars and street artists which attracts a lot of tourists.


Pelourinho is also the ground place for the Olodum group.
Olodum is a cultural group based in the Afro Brazilian community of Salvador. It was founded by the percussionist Neguinho do Samba. It's all about drums and rythm.
In 1996 Michael Jackson made them world famous as they featured in his 'They Don't Care About Us'-music video which were filmed in the streets of Pelourinho.



Throughout the entire music video Michael Jackson is wearing different Olodum shirts. A brand founded in 1979 along with the group itself.
Olodum offers cultural activities for young people centered around music. Also stating aims to combat racism, to encourage self-esteem and pride among Afro Brazilians, and to fight for civil rights for all marginalized groups. All causes which Michael Jackson believed in and supported.  The song itself explains difficulties in marginalized communities.



As an inveterate fan of Michael Jackson I had to get an Olodum shirt. The prices were pretty reasonable and I ended up with two Olodum shirts and a handpainted shirt with Michael Jackson - what a unique souvenir to bring back home!
During the music video Michael Jackson is seen on a balcony on several occasions. In Pelourinho we visited this very balcony. I entered the balcony and stood on the very same spot were Michael stood almost two decades ago.
As a huge MJ admirer this expirience left me stoked - no doubt this will be a memorable moment for years to come.

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