El Gran Varón

Willie Colón's 'El Gran Varón' is a poignant narrative that delves into themes of gender identity, societal expectations, and the painful consequences of intolerance. Released in the late 1980s, a time when conversations about LGBTQ+ issues were far less common than today, the song tells the story of Simón, a man born into a traditional family with rigid views on masculinity and gender roles. The lyrics unfold Simón's life journey, from the expectations placed upon him at birth to his eventual estrangement from his father due to his gender expression.

The song begins with the birth of Simón, highlighting the father's pride in having a son to carry on his legacy. As Simón grows up, he is subjected to strict upbringing and is expected to follow in his father's footsteps. However, upon moving abroad, Simón embraces his true self, which includes wearing skirts and makeup—actions that defy his father's conservative views. The pivotal moment occurs when Simón's father visits him unannounced and is confronted with his son's identity, leading to rejection and abandonment. The refrain 'No se puede corregir a la naturaleza' (You can't correct nature) serves as a powerful reminder that one's true nature cannot—and should not—be forcibly changed.

The song concludes with the tragic news of Simón's death from an unnamed illness in a hospital, where he dies alone, unacknowledged and unmourned. This ending, particularly in the context of the 1980s, may allude to the AIDS epidemic and the stigma that many LGBTQ+ individuals faced. Colón's narrative is a call for compassion and understanding, urging listeners to accept and love people for who they are. The song's enduring legacy lies in its emotional storytelling and its challenge to societal norms, making 'El Gran Varón' a timeless anthem for acceptance and the human struggle for identity.