Gallo Viejo

Enrique Cadícamo's song "Gallo Viejo" paints a vivid picture of an older man, referred to as the 'Old Rooster,' who continues to live a life of extravagance and charm despite his age. The lyrics are rich with Argentine slang and cultural references, particularly from the tango scene, which Cadícamo was deeply embedded in. The song opens with a scene of the old man driving down Avenida Alvear, a prestigious street in Buenos Aires, with a beautiful young woman by his side. This image immediately sets the tone for the song, highlighting the man's continued pursuit of youthful pleasures and the attention it garners from onlookers.

The chorus, "Gallo Viejo," emphasizes the man's resilience and his ability to attract and spend money on love, even if it is fleeting. The term 'Gallo Viejo' (Old Rooster) is a metaphor for the man's enduring virility and charisma, despite his advancing years. The lyrics suggest that he is well aware of the gossip and judgment from others, but he remains unfazed, continuing to live life on his own terms. This defiance is a central theme in the song, portraying the old man as a figure who refuses to conform to societal expectations about aging.

The song also touches on the superficiality and transient nature of the relationships the old man engages in. He buys love and affection, only to forget about these encounters soon after. This cycle of indulgence and forgetfulness underscores a sense of loneliness and the emptiness that can accompany a life focused solely on material pleasures. Cadícamo's lyrics, filled with colloquial expressions and a conversational tone, bring to life the vibrant yet melancholic world of the 'Old Rooster,' making "Gallo Viejo" a poignant reflection on age, desire, and the passage of time.