El Licenciado

Arley Perez's song 'El Licenciado' paints a vivid picture of a man who has risen from humble beginnings to a position of influence and respect. The term 'Licenciado' typically refers to someone with a degree or a professional title, but in this context, it symbolizes a person who has earned respect through his actions and dedication. The song begins by describing the protagonist's early life, where he used to ride a bicycle in his beloved hometown and worked hard to support his community. The imagery of moving 'in the spiders' and being dedicated suggests a life of constant hustle and determination.

The lyrics delve into the world of drug trafficking, a common theme in narcocorridos, a genre that often glorifies the lives of drug lords and their operations. The 'white powder' extracted from sugar cane and sold to calm hunger represents the drug trade that the protagonist is involved in. Despite the illegal nature of his business, the song portrays him as a figure of strength and resilience, someone who has built his empire 'little by little' and has become strong by selling kilos of drugs. The mention of 'plumas escarchadas' (frosted feathers) likely refers to cocaine, further emphasizing his involvement in the drug trade.

The song also highlights the protagonist's loyalty and gratitude towards 'El Chapo,' a notorious drug lord. The protagonist admires El Chapo for supporting his father during his last days and vows to always be loyal to him. This relationship underscores the themes of loyalty and respect within the drug cartel culture. The protagonist's pride in his hometown, where bicycles and 'spiders' (likely a reference to a type of vehicle or mode of transport) are common, and his acknowledgment of the cartel he depends on, further illustrate his deep connection to his roots and his community. The song concludes with a nod to the women he admires, adding a personal touch to the narrative.

'Arley Perez' is known for his contributions to the narcocorrido genre, which often tells the stories of drug lords and their lives. His music is characterized by its raw and unfiltered portrayal of the realities of the drug trade, making 'El Licenciado' a compelling narrative of resilience, loyalty, and pride in one's roots.