El Asesino

The song 'El Asesino' by Los Cadetes de Linares is a poignant narrative that delves into themes of love, betrayal, and vengeance. The title, which translates to 'The Assassin,' sets a somber tone for the story the lyrics unfold. Los Cadetes de Linares, a renowned norteño band known for their corridos—Mexican ballads that often tell stories of life, love, and conflict—use their music to portray the intense emotions of a man who has committed a crime of passion.

The protagonist of the song is labeled as an assassin by society and is pursued by the law for killing the woman who scorned his love. The lyrics express the character's turmoil and justification for his actions, claiming that the murder was a legal act in response to the betrayal of his honor and love. The song's narrator is consumed by jealousy and pain, which led him to commit the act. He acknowledges that the woman is now judged by God and hopes that from heaven, she understands the depth of his love and the reasons behind his drastic actions.

The song also reveals the protagonist's desire for vengeance against the man who made him a criminal, indicating that his beloved was unfaithful. He is willing to accept the legal consequences of his actions, but not before he seeks retribution. The repetition of the verse about accepting a twenty-year sentence but wanting to avenge himself first underscores the depth of his pain and the extent of his desire for justice. 'El Asesino' is a tragic tale that reflects the darker aspects of love and the lengths to which a person might go when driven by powerful emotions.