Floggers

El Perro's song 'Floggers' delves into the cultural phenomenon of the 'flogger' subculture that emerged in Argentina in the mid-2000s. The lyrics narrate the transformation of a young man, referred to as 'tu hermano' (your brother), who adopts the distinctive style and behaviors associated with floggers. This subculture was characterized by a unique fashion sense, including tight clothing and specific hairstyles, as well as a preference for electronic dance music over traditional genres like cumbia.

The song highlights the brother's shift in identity through vivid descriptions of his new appearance and habits. He now 'se arregla el pelito' (fixes his hair) and 'se peina pa el costado' (combs it to the side), indicating a meticulous attention to his look. The lyrics also mention his preference for 'marcha' (electronic dance music) and his rejection of 'cumbia,' a genre often associated with working-class culture. This change is further emphasized by his new drinking habits, as he now prefers water over beer, symbolizing a move away from traditional, perhaps more rugged, social norms.

The repeated phrase 'ya no es más negro cabeza' (he's no longer a 'negro cabeza') is particularly striking. This term, often used pejoratively in Argentina, refers to someone from a lower socio-economic background. By stating that the brother is no longer a 'negro cabeza,' the song underscores his desire to distance himself from his past and align with a more affluent, cosmopolitan identity. This transformation is not just about fashion or music; it's a deeper commentary on social mobility, identity, and the pressures to conform to new cultural norms.

'Floggers' by El Perro is a poignant exploration of how subcultures can influence personal identity and social dynamics. It captures the tension between old and new, tradition and modernity, and the complex ways in which individuals navigate these changes in their quest for self-expression and acceptance.