El Diablo

Willie Colón's song "El Diablo" is a vivid narrative that delves into the theme of temptation and the moral dilemmas one faces when confronted with seemingly too-good-to-be-true offers. The song begins with a phone call at an ungodly hour, where the protagonist, Señor Colón, is informed that he has won the lottery. The catch, however, is that he must sign a paper to claim his prize. Colón, puzzled by the fact that he never played the lottery, senses something amiss and wisely refrains from signing the document. This initial encounter sets the tone for the song, highlighting the importance of skepticism and caution in the face of unexpected fortune.

The narrative continues with another encounter, this time on the road to New York. Colón meets a man with a brand-new car who offers to give it away, again requiring only a signature on a piece of paper. The repetition of this scenario reinforces the idea that these offers are traps, likely orchestrated by the devil himself. The chorus serves as a stark warning: "Ese hombre es el diablo que vino y al infierno te quiere llevar" (That man is the devil who came and wants to take you to hell). This refrain underscores the central message of the song, urging listeners to be wary of deceitful promises that could lead to their downfall.

Culturally, the song taps into the rich tradition of Latin American storytelling, where the devil often appears as a trickster figure, tempting individuals with material wealth or power. Willie Colón, known for his contributions to salsa music and his socially conscious lyrics, uses this narrative to explore broader themes of morality, integrity, and the human tendency to be lured by superficial gains. The song's lively rhythm and engaging story make it both a cautionary tale and a compelling piece of musical art.