Juan Albañil

Cheo Feliciano's song "Juan Albañil" tells the poignant story of a construction worker named Juan, who, despite his hard work in building luxurious structures, is barred from enjoying the fruits of his labor. The song opens with a declaration that it's based on a true story, setting a tone of authenticity and seriousness. The lyrics poetically describe Juan's experience as he walks through the city on a Sunday, observing the buildings he helped construct, yet from which he is excluded. This narrative highlights the stark contrast between the laborers who build the city's infrastructure and those who enjoy it.

The chorus of the song emphasizes Juan's dreams of equality and his realization of the harsh realities of social injustice. The repeated line, "Juan Albañil no puede entrar," serves as a powerful refrain that underscores the exclusion and marginalization faced by workers like Juan. This motif of exclusion extends beyond physical spaces to broader societal and economic inequalities.

Towards the end of the song, there is a hopeful note that someday "la casa de la igualdad" (the house of equality) will be built, where everyone, regardless of their social status, can enter. This vision of a more equitable society is a call to action, urging solidarity among workers and a rethinking of societal values. The song uses the metaphor of construction not just for buildings, but for a better society, making it a powerful anthem for social change.