La Encomienda
El Makabelico (El Comando Exclusivo)
The Ballad of the Cartel: 'La Encomienda' by El Makabelico
The song 'La Encomienda' by El Makabelico, a member of El Comando Exclusivo, is a narrative that delves into the life and ethos of a Mexican cartel member. The lyrics are a raw and unfiltered portrayal of the violent and dangerous world of drug trafficking, reflecting a sense of pride and resilience in the face of adversity. The song's title, 'La Encomienda,' translates to 'The Commission' or 'The Task,' suggesting a duty or mission that the singer is bound to fulfill.
The lyrics speak to the daily operations and struggles of cartel life, including confrontations with enemies ('atentados'), territorial control ('patrullando'), and the loss of comrades ('brindo por los que se van'). The song also emphasizes the cartel's power and influence, with references to their presence being felt 'por dorquier' (everywhere) and their readiness to defend their territory and interests at all costs. The repeated mention of 'Néctar Lima' likely refers to a specific location or operation significant to the cartel.
El Makabelico's delivery of the song is both a tribute to fallen members ('En memoria de los que ya no están') and a rallying cry for those who continue the fight ('Y por los que seguimos dando guerra'). The song ends with a patriotic shout-out to Mexico, suggesting that the cartel's actions are, in their view, a twisted form of nationalism. The song is a stark reminder of the complex and often glorified narratives that surround cartel culture in Mexico.