El Toto

Jimmy Y Su Combo Negro's song 'El Toto' is a vibrant celebration of dance and rhythm, deeply rooted in the cumbia genre. The lyrics invite a 'morena' (a term often used affectionately to refer to a woman with dark features) to dance to the infectious beat of the cumbia. The song emphasizes the movement of the body, particularly the hips, to the sound of the accordion and the drum, which are central instruments in cumbia music. The repeated call to 'baila' (dance) underscores the song's primary focus on the joy and freedom found in dancing.

The phrase 'mueve tus caderas' (move your hips) highlights the sensual and rhythmic nature of the dance, encouraging the dancer to let loose and enjoy the music. The mention of 'el llamador' (a type of drum) and 'mi acordeón' (my accordion) points to the traditional instruments that give cumbia its distinctive sound. These elements together create a lively and engaging atmosphere, inviting everyone to join in the dance.

The chorus, 'El toto pa delante, el toto para atras' (The toto forward, the toto backward), is a playful instruction for the dance moves, suggesting a back-and-forth motion that is both simple and fun. 'El toto' can be interpreted as a colloquial term for the dance itself or a specific dance move. This repetition and simplicity make the song easy to follow and enjoyable for dancers of all levels. The overall message of the song is one of celebration, community, and the pure joy of dancing to the rhythm of cumbia.