No Me Gusta El Blues

The song 'No Me Gusta El Blues' by Ilegales is a raw and unfiltered expression of disillusionment with the blues genre and a broader critique of the socio-economic struggles faced by musicians. The repeated refrain 'No me gusta el blues, quiero pasta' (I don't like the blues, I want money) underscores a desire for financial stability over artistic expression. This sentiment is a stark contrast to the romanticized view of the struggling artist, highlighting the harsh realities of living in poverty.

The lyrics delve into the personal experiences of the artist, who has played with both white and black musicians, only to find that they all share the common denominator of misery. This line, 'He tocado con blancos, he tocado con negros, y sólo tuvimos en propiedad la miseria' (I've played with whites, I've played with blacks, and all we owned was misery), speaks to the universal struggle of musicians regardless of race, emphasizing that the pursuit of art often comes at the cost of financial security.

Furthermore, the song critiques the music industry itself, describing jazz as 'una estafa mal pagada' (a poorly paid scam). This line suggests a deep-seated frustration with the exploitation and underpayment of artists. The mention of 'las chicas de puerto' (port girls) who drink gin and sell their bodies adds another layer of social commentary, painting a bleak picture of the lengths people go to survive. Overall, 'No Me Gusta El Blues' is a powerful statement on the intersection of art, poverty, and the relentless pursuit of financial stability.