La 22
1280 Almas
The Battle Cry of the Disenfranchised: Understanding 'La 22' by 1280 Almas
1280 Almas' song 'La 22' is a powerful critique of social inequality and the superficial understanding of freedom and humanity by those in privileged positions. The lyrics open with a stark contrast between the lives of the privileged and the oppressed. The privileged are depicted as being detached from real problems, enjoying their secure lives with a glass of whiskey while speaking about freedom. This juxtaposition highlights the disconnect between their theoretical understanding of freedom and the harsh realities faced by the less fortunate.
The song continues to challenge the notion of objectivity claimed by the privileged. It criticizes their ability to observe suffering from a distance and extract 'truth' without experiencing it firsthand. The lyrics urge these individuals to preach tolerance to those who have nothing, exposing their incapacity to truly understand or address the needs of the marginalized. This section of the song underscores the theme of ignorance and the superficiality of the privileged's empathy.
In the latter part of the song, the artist addresses criticism of their music, which is labeled as 'heavy rumba' due to its themes of vengeance and justice. The artist defends their work, stating that their lyrics come from the heart and should not be constrained or censored. The repeated refrain 'Que Sabes Tu' (What do you know) serves as a poignant reminder of the gap between the lived experiences of the oppressed and the detached perspectives of the privileged. The song concludes with a celebration of 'Rumba de la 22,' a metaphor for the resilient and defiant spirit of the marginalized, emphasizing that their music and message are not just any rumba but a 'guerrera' (warrior) rumba, symbolizing their fight for justice and recognition.