By the time Anitta released the music video for “Cravo e Canela” in May 2016, she had already proven her range visually, musically, and emotionally. Coming off the pop fantasy of “Bang” and the candy-coated drama of “Essa Mina é Louca,” she pivoted again with a video that felt slower, darker, and more internal. “Cravo e Canela,” with Vitin from the reggae-rock band Onze:20, isn’t trying to make a big splash. It just stays with you.
Directed by Bruno Ilogti, who had by then become a recurring collaborator in Anitta’s videography, the “Cravo e Canela” video takes place almost entirely inside a car. Inside, Anitta sings with a calm intensity, her body language speaking volumes despite her seated position.
It’s surprising how much feeling the video gets across without ever leaving the inside of the car. There’s no dancing, no big sets or costume changes. But it never feels boring. The emotion comes from Anitta—her hands, her eyes, the way she moves just a little. It’s all really subtle, but it works.
Anitta is known for her choreography. From “Show das Poderosas” to “Bang” to later videos like “Envolver,” she’s consistently made dance a central part of her visual identity. Here, her body is still.
“Cravo e Canela,” which translates to “Clove and Cinnamon,” is a love song wrapped in metaphor. The lyrics are sensual without being explicit, suggestive without being vulgar.
Vitin brings a mellow vibe to the song. His slightly rough, steady voice plays nicely off Anitta’s softer, more airy vocals. He only shows up quickly in the video, but even with that brief moment, you can feel he’s a perfect match.
It also underscores something important about her artistry: she’s not afraid to pause. Not every release has to be a viral hit or a choreography challenge. Sometimes, less really is more.
In a world where pop often prioritizes speed, shock, and spectacle, Anitta took a moment to slow down. And in doing so, she gave us one of her most emotionally honest visuals to date.
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