La Carimba

Arturo Zambo Cavero's song 'La Carimba' is a poignant reflection on the brutal history of slavery and the enduring scars it has left on the descendants of enslaved people. The song opens with a sorrowful image of a black man tenderly caressing an old ox, comparing their shared marks and calling the ox his brother. This metaphor highlights the dehumanizing treatment of slaves, who were often branded like animals, and the deep bond formed through shared suffering.

The lyrics continue to describe the disintegration of a partnership, symbolized by the death of the ox, and the subsequent vulnerability to further exploitation and violence. The repeated warning to 'flee, brothers, flee' from the enraged master who seeks to brand even the devil himself underscores the constant threat of brutality that slaves faced. The use of the word 'carimba,' which refers to the branding iron used on slaves, serves as a powerful symbol of the physical and psychological scars inflicted by slavery.

The song also incorporates elements of traditional Afro-Peruvian music, such as the zamacueca, a dance that originated among African slaves in Peru. This cultural reference not only enriches the song's historical context but also serves as a reminder of the resilience and enduring spirit of the Afro-Peruvian community. Through 'La Carimba,' Cavero pays tribute to the strength and perseverance of his ancestors while also calling attention to the lasting impact of their suffering.

The haunting refrain of 'carimba, carimbarimba' and 'zamacueca, zamacueca' evokes a sense of mourning and resistance, capturing the complex emotions of pain, defiance, and hope. Cavero's powerful delivery and the song's evocative imagery make 'La Carimba' a moving testament to the enduring legacy of slavery and the unbreakable spirit of those who endured it.