Un Año Más

The song 'Un Año Más' by Ana Torroja is a poignant reflection on the passage of time, particularly as it relates to the New Year's Eve celebrations at Puerta del Sol in Madrid, Spain. The lyrics describe the traditional Spanish customs of eating grapes and toasting with champagne as the clock strikes midnight, marking the end of one year and the beginning of another. The mention of 'alquitran de alfombra' likely refers to the crowded streets, metaphorically coated with tar, as people gather to celebrate.

Ana Torroja, the former lead singer of the Spanish band Mecano, is known for her emotive voice and the ability to convey deep feelings through her music. In 'Un Año Más,' she captures the bittersweet nature of farewelling the old year while welcoming the new. The song acknowledges the collective experience of taking stock of the past ('Hacemos el balance de lo bueno y malo') and the shared hope for a better future. It also pays homage to those who are no longer with us, urging the living to make the most of the time they have.

The song's chorus emphasizes unity and the simultaneous action of celebrating, regardless of one's status or background. It's a call for togetherness and a reminder that, despite our differences, certain moments bring us together in shared experience. The countdown ('Cinco minutos más de la cuenta atrás') symbolizes the anticipation and collective breath-holding before the burst of joy at the arrival of the New Year, with hopes that it will be more prosperous ('a ver si en vez de un millon, pueden ser dos').