Guarda-me a Vida na Mão is the debut studio album by the Portuguese fado singer Ana Moura, released in 2003. Produced under the Universal Music Portugal label, the album serves as the introductory work that established Moura as a significant figure in the "New Fado" movement of the early 21st century.
The title, which translates from Portuguese to English as "Keep my life in [your] hand," is also the title of one of the tracks on the album. The project was produced by Jorge Fernando, a well-known musician and composer in the fado genre, who also contributed to the songwriting and played the viola de fado (classical guitar) on the recordings.
Musically, the album adheres to the traditional conventions of fado, utilizing the Portuguese guitar and the viola de fado. It features a mix of traditional fado melodies and original compositions. The lyrical content primarily explores themes common to the genre, such as saudade (a deep emotional state of nostalgic longing), fate, and human relationships.
The release of Guarda-me a Vida na Mão was met with critical acclaim in Portugal, specifically noting Moura’s vocal maturity and her ability to interpret the traditional mournful style of fado with a contemporary resonance. The success of the album facilitated Moura’s transition to international stages, eventually leading to collaborations with global artists and further studio recordings.
