Viento del Sur
Alameda
The Journey of Survival and Hope in 'Viento del Sur'
Alameda's song 'Viento del Sur' paints a vivid picture of the struggles and resilience of immigrants, particularly those from Africa, who arrive in Spain seeking a better life. The lyrics begin with the protagonist identifying himself as a 'negro' who has arrived in a 'patera,' a small boat often used by migrants crossing the Mediterranean. This sets the stage for a narrative of hardship and perseverance, as he describes his daily hustle selling goods on the streets, specifically on 'el jueves,' a reference to a popular market day in Seville. The items he sells—watches, belts, and ivory figurines—symbolize the small, often undervalued, means by which he tries to make a living.
The recurring refrain, 'Viento del sur, que te lleva; que me lleva, de aquí