Cuando Duerme El Rock And Roll

Joan Manuel Serrat's song "Cuando Duerme El Rock And Roll" paints a vivid picture of the nightlife and the various musical genres that come alive when rock and roll takes a rest. The song begins with the metaphor of a sheriff, symbolizing rock and roll, who, after a long night, finally succumbs to sleep. This imagery sets the stage for the other musical styles to emerge from the shadows and take over the night. The tango, bolero, blues, and other Latin rhythms like mambo, rumba, and cha-cha-chá are personified, each taking their turn to shine in the absence of rock and roll. This personification highlights the rich diversity of musical traditions that coexist and thrive in the night, each with its own unique charm and rhythm.

The lyrics also delve into the idea of nostalgia and the cyclical nature of musical trends. As rock and roll sleeps, these other genres, often overshadowed by the dominant rock culture, find their moment in the spotlight. The song suggests a sense of longing and a desire for recognition, as these genres "shake off nostalgia and oblivion" and await their turn to be favored by the fickle gods of fashion. This theme resonates with the idea that all musical styles have their own value and beauty, even if they are not always in the mainstream.

Serrat's poetic lyrics also evoke a sense of magic and transformation, akin to the story of Cinderella. As dawn approaches, the musical genres that had taken over the night begin to fade away, returning to their hidden corners as rock and roll awakens. This cyclical pattern underscores the transient nature of trends and the ever-changing landscape of music. The song is a celebration of musical diversity and a reminder that every genre has its own time to shine, even if only for a fleeting moment in the night.