Apagado Focos (feat. Tuto López)
Iván Villazón
The Struggle with Rising Utility Bills: A Vallenato Tale
Iván Villazón, a renowned Colombian vallenato singer, often incorporates everyday struggles and humorous anecdotes into his music. The song "Apagado Focos (feat. Tuto López)" is a playful yet poignant commentary on the financial strain caused by high electricity bills. The lyrics describe the singer's frustration with being unable to afford even a drink because all his earnings go towards paying for electricity. The use of hyperbole, stating that the bill arrives at an exorbitant amount, emphasizes the burden of these costs on ordinary people.
The song also tells a story of the community's reaction to the high utility bills, mentioning specific individuals and locations, which adds a personal touch and authenticity to the narrative. The mention of household items like air conditioners and refrigerators being pawned to the 'cachaco' (a colloquial term for someone from Bogotá) illustrates the desperate measures people take to cope with financial pressures. The humorous element is present when describing a chaotic scene at Doña Ruth's house, where a man on a ladder is attempting to cut off the electricity, symbolizing the community's resistance to the high costs.
Through its catchy rhythm and relatable lyrics, "Apagado Focos" reflects the universal theme of economic hardship and the struggle to make ends meet. Villazón uses his music to give voice to the common people, highlighting the social issues they face while providing a sense of solidarity and resilience through the shared experience of hardship.