Lázaro (part. Fito Paez)

In 'Lázaro (feat. Fito Paez),' Joaquín Sabina, accompanied by Fito Paez, crafts a vivid narrative that draws on the biblical story of Lazarus, who was resurrected by Jesus. The song's title and recurring line, 'Lázaro, levántate y anda' (Lazarus, rise and walk), serve as a powerful metaphor for awakening and confronting the complexities of modern life. Sabina's lyrics are a call to action, urging the listener to re-engage with the world, despite its myriad challenges and demands.

The song paints a picture of life's chaotic and often overwhelming nature, referencing everyday struggles such as paying bills ('El recibo del gas'), dealing with societal expectations ('La gorda de la esquina'), and navigating personal and professional pressures ('Esto es un negocio'). Sabina's use of colloquial language and direct address ('Eh, flaco', 'Eh, viejo') creates an intimate and urgent tone, emphasizing the immediacy of the call to action. The inclusion of cultural references like Tom Waits and Edith Piaf adds depth, suggesting that art and music are integral parts of this journey of reawakening.

'Lázaro' also touches on themes of resilience and renewal. The repeated lines 'volver a empezar' (to start again) and 'el amor después del amor' (love after love) highlight the cyclical nature of life and the possibility of new beginnings, even after hardship. The song's rich imagery and dynamic rhythm mirror the unpredictability of life, encouraging the listener to embrace both its beauty and its chaos. By invoking Lazarus, Sabina and Paez remind us that, no matter how daunting life may seem, there is always the potential for rebirth and transformation.