Él (Him)
José José
The Heartache of Betrayal in José José's 'Él (Him)'
José José's song 'Él (Him)' is a poignant portrayal of betrayal and jealousy in a romantic relationship. The lyrics tell the story of a man who discovers evidence of his partner's infidelity—a pack of cigarettes that doesn't belong to him. This discovery leads him to confront the painful reality that his partner may be involved with another man, referred to simply as 'him.' The song's narrative captures the protagonist's emotional turmoil as he grapples with the implications of this betrayal.
The lyrics express the protagonist's demand for clarity and resolution. He insists that his partner must choose between him and the other man, as he refuses to be made a fool of. The repetition of 'él, él, él' (him, him, him) emphasizes the protagonist's obsession with the other man's identity and his role in the love triangle. The song's emotional intensity is heightened by José José's passionate vocal delivery, which conveys a sense of urgency and desperation.
José José, known as 'El Príncipe de la Canción' (The Prince of Song), was renowned for his expressive singing and his ability to convey deep emotions through his music. 'Él (Him)' is a testament to his talent for storytelling through song, as it captures the universal themes of love, jealousy, and the pain of infidelity. The song's narrative and emotional depth resonate with listeners who have experienced similar situations, making it a timeless piece in the genre of Latin ballads.