Copacabana (versión en español)

Barry Manilow's 'Copacabana (versión en español)' is a Spanish rendition of his hit song 'Copacabana,' also known as 'Copacabana (At the Copa).' The song tells the story of Lola, a showgirl at the Copacabana nightclub in Havana, Cuba, and her lover Tony, who works at the bar. The narrative unfolds to reveal a love triangle that ends in violence and heartbreak, set against the backdrop of the vibrant and glamorous world of the Copacabana.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Lola, with her red feathers and revealing dress, dancing the merengue and cha-cha, dreaming of stardom. Tony, her lover, works tirelessly behind the bar. Their love is simple and pure, encapsulated in the line 'Eran jóvenes y se amaban / No pedían más' ('They were young and they loved each other / They didn't ask for more'). However, the arrival of Rico, a flashy character adorned with diamonds and accompanied by bodyguards, disrupts their idyllic love. Rico's interest in Lola leads to a confrontation with Tony, resulting in a gunshot. The song leaves the listener wondering who was killed in the altercation.

As the song progresses, we learn that the Copacabana has changed from a nightclub to a disco, and Lola is still there, but she is no longer the young, hopeful dancer she once was. She drinks incessantly, mourning the loss of her Tony. The repetition of the chorus with the lines 'Música y Lola están siempre de moda en el Copa' ('Music and Lola are always in fashion at the Copa') contrasts with the final lines 'Ya no hay amor' ('There is no more love'), highlighting the enduring nature of the club's fame but the fleeting nature of love and life. Manilow's storytelling through music captures the essence of a bygone era, filled with passion and tragedy, and remains a poignant reminder of the highs and lows of showbiz.