Y que tu quieres que te den
Adalberto Alvarez
Invoking the Orishas: A Musical Journey Through Afro-Cuban Spirituality
Adalberto Alvarez's song 'Y que tu quieres que te den' is a vibrant celebration of Afro-Cuban culture and religion. The lyrics are a rich tapestry of references to the Orishas, the deities of the Yoruba religion, which plays a significant role in Cuban Santería. The song begins with a call to the singer's spiritual home and a recognition of the African roots that have deeply influenced Cuban culture. The mention of various Orishas, such as Obatalá, Ochún, Changó, and Yemayá, is an acknowledgment of their syncretism with Catholic saints and their importance in the daily lives of practitioners.
The song's chorus, '¿Y qué tú quieres que te den?' which translates to 'And what do you want them to give you?' is a recurring question that invites listeners to reflect on their desires and the petitions they make to the Orishas. The lyrics suggest that while people come to ask for various favors, one should ask with humility and not for selfish or harmful purposes. The song emphasizes the importance of good intentions and the belief that the Orishas can provide guidance, protection, and blessings for individuals and their families.
Throughout the song, there is a sense of community and shared spirituality, as the singer calls for peace, an end to war, and well-being for all. The music likely features traditional Afro-Cuban rhythms and instruments, which would complement the spiritual and communal themes of the lyrics. Adalberto Alvarez, known for his contributions to Cuban music, particularly in the genre of son, has created a piece that not only entertains but also educates and connects listeners to the rich traditions of Afro-Cuban religion and culture.