Habaname

Carlos Varela's song 'Habaname' is a poignant tribute to Havana, the capital city of Cuba, and a reflection on the passage of time and the changes it brings. The lyrics, sung in Spanish, evoke a sense of nostalgia and a deep connection to the city through personal and historical lenses. Varela uses the metaphor of looking through a photo album to travel back in time to the 'old capital' and its colonial past, suggesting a longing for a Havana that once was.

The song's chorus, 'Habana, Habana, if a song were enough to give back everything that time has taken from you,' expresses a wish to restore the city's former glory and vibrancy. This sentiment is amplified by the personal touch of the artist's family history, as he mentions his father's arrival in Havana and how the city welcomed him, leading to his own birth. The emotional weight of the song is further conveyed through the mention of Cuban musician Miguel Matamoros, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage that Havana holds.

'Habaname' is not just a song about a city; it's a lament for the loss of beauty and hope, as seen in the crumbling walls of illusion. Varela's lyrics are a call to remember and cherish the past while acknowledging the pain of witnessing the city's decline. The repeated line 'Y no entiendes que este llanto es por amor' (And you don't understand that this crying is for love) underscores the depth of feeling the artist has for Havana, a love that is both joyous and sorrowful.