¿Hasta Cuándo? (feat. Fito Paez)

Joaquín Sabina's song '¿Hasta Cuándo?' featuring Fito Paez is a poignant reflection on the cyclical nature of violence and the yearning for peace. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a society caught in the throes of conflict, where individuals like Aytor and Carmela decide to abandon their guitars for weapons, symbolizing a shift from art to violence. This decision is emblematic of the broader societal trend towards conflict and the tragic consequences that follow, such as the 'luto y nieve' (mourning and snow) that mark the path of destiny.

The song delves into the everyday tragedies that result from this perpetual state of unrest. The imagery of a junkie dying in technicolor and the 'península histérica' (hysterical peninsula) drunk on the sun highlights the stark contrast between the beauty of life and the harsh realities of war. The lyrics also touch on the futility of these conflicts, describing them as 'heridas de guerra que nadie ganó' (war wounds that no one won), emphasizing the senselessness of the violence that plagues the region.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of disillusionment and a desperate plea for change. The chorus, with its repeated question '¿Hasta cuándo?' (Until when?), serves as a powerful indictment of the endless cycle of violence and the collective suffering it causes. Sabina and Paez call for a new song for the voiceless, a song that refuses to forget the past but also seeks to transcend it. This plea for peace and understanding is a call to action, urging listeners to imagine a world where the cycle of violence is broken and a new, more harmonious reality can emerge.