Chicos Malos (Cumbia)

Grupo Celeste's song 'Chicos Malos (Cumbia)' serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of a reckless lifestyle. The lyrics repeatedly mention 'chicos malos,' or 'bad boys,' who are characterized by their involvement in risky behaviors such as fighting ('apretones') and smoking ('fumones'). These young men are depicted as constantly seeking thrills ('vacilones'), but the song warns that this lifestyle ultimately leads to negative outcomes.

The chorus emphasizes the bleak future awaiting these 'chicos malos.' They end up with 'unas cuántas cicatrices sin raíces,' which translates to 'a few scars without roots,' symbolizing the superficial and transient nature of their experiences. The lyrics also mention that these young men often find themselves 'dentro de una celda e' locos o en la cana,' meaning 'inside a cell of madness or in jail.' This stark imagery serves to highlight the severe consequences of their actions.

However, the song also offers a message of hope and redemption. The repeated lines 'Por eso ahora escúchenme, estamos a tiempo de trabajar, estamos a tiempo de comenzar, luego iremos a disfrutar' translate to 'So now listen to me, we still have time to work, we still have time to start, then we will go enjoy.' This suggests that there is still an opportunity for these young men to change their ways, focus on productive activities, and eventually enjoy a more fulfilling life. Grupo Celeste uses this song to deliver a powerful message about the importance of making wise choices and the possibility of redemption, even for those who have strayed down a dangerous path.