Mi Generación
Andrés Cepeda
The Echoes of a Generation: Andrés Cepeda's 'Mi Generación'
Andrés Cepeda's song 'Mi Generación' is a poignant reflection on the experiences and transformations of a generation that grew up in Colombia during a time of significant social and political upheaval. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the 1970s and 1980s, a period marked by violence, political instability, and cultural shifts. Cepeda begins by recalling his childhood, a time when speaking out was dangerous, and the sky, once seemingly eternal, now feels transient. This sets the tone for a narrative that is both personal and collective, capturing the essence of a generation that witnessed profound changes.
The song delves into the cultural and political landscape of the time, referencing significant events such as the takeover of the embassy and the palace, which were broadcast on television. These events are juxtaposed with Cepeda's personal memories, like drinking Chocolisto and listening to Lucho Herrera's cycling victories. This blend of the personal and the political highlights the duality of growing up during such turbulent times, where moments of normalcy and joy coexisted with violence and uncertainty.
Cepeda also touches on the cultural shifts of his youth, mentioning how young people were beginning to embrace rock music in Spanish, even as bombs exploded and a new constitution was being drafted. This reflects a generation caught between old and new, tradition and change. The recurring question, 'Decime, decime, decime a dónde vamos,' underscores a sense of uncertainty about the future, a feeling that resonates with many who lived through those times. The song ends on a hopeful note, with a vow to not grow old in spirit, suggesting that despite the challenges, there is a resilience and enduring hope within his generation.