Tomalo Por El Lado Amable
Banda Machos
Embracing Life's Realities with Banda Machos
Banda Machos' song "Tomalo Por El Lado Amable" is a candid and unapologetic narrative about a man's perspective on relationships and life. The song opens with a declaration aimed at 'macho' men, setting the tone for a straightforward and somewhat brash message. The lyrics revolve around a man addressing a woman who believes she holds a unique and irreplaceable position in his life. He counters this by suggesting that she has much to learn about life and relationships, using the metaphor of teaching a priest how to pray to emphasize her naivety.
The man admits to being a 'viejo ratón' (old mouse), a term that implies he is experienced and accustomed to changing partners frequently. This self-awareness is coupled with a blunt admission that while he likes her, he does not love her. He advises her to take things lightly and not to expect a grand prize from their relationship, as it is unlikely to happen. The repeated advice to 'take it on the bright side' underscores a theme of accepting reality and not letting disappointment lead to bitterness.
Culturally, the song reflects a traditional 'macho' attitude prevalent in some Latin American societies, where men often pride themselves on their independence and reluctance to commit. The lyrics also touch on the idea of luck and rarity in relationships, suggesting that the woman was fortunate to catch his attention, but also highlighting that many others are in the same situation. The song's upbeat and lively rhythm contrasts with its somewhat harsh message, creating a unique blend of festive music and sobering truths.