Vaya Vaya
Cartel de Santa
Unyielding Confidence and Street Cred: Dissecting 'Vaya Vaya' by Cartel de Santa
The song 'Vaya Vaya' by Cartel de Santa, a Mexican hip-hop group known for their gritty lyrics and portrayal of street life, is a braggadocious anthem that exudes the confidence and swagger of the group's frontman, Eduardo Davalos de Luna, known as Babo. The lyrics are a testament to his self-assuredness and the respect he commands within the hip-hop community and beyond. The song's title, which can be translated to 'Well, well' or 'Look at that', sets the tone for a track that's all about making a statement.
Babo uses the song to assert his dominance in the rap game, despite his age, noting that he still attracts a young audience and considers whether to retire or stay in the game indefinitely. He dismisses his critics and competitors as 'mequetrefes' (upstarts) and 'pendejos' (idiots), suggesting they lack the qualities that he has in abundance. The repeated line 'Un dedote al que me tire y un pulgar al que me apoye' translates to 'A big finger to those who shoot at me and a thumb up to those who support me,' which is a clear message of defiance to his detractors and appreciation for his supporters.
Cultural references and metaphors are peppered throughout the song, with mentions of 'Jordan' implying a high level of skill and success, and 'AK' as a symbol of power. Babo also uses international references, such as 'Tokyo, Hiroshima, and Nagasaki,' to emphasize his impact and explosive presence in the music scene. The song is a bold declaration of Babo's place in the industry, his resilience, and his refusal to be overshadowed or underestimated by anyone.