Tiempos Viejos

Julio Sosa's 'Tiempos Viejos,' which translates to 'Old Times,' is a poignant reflection on the past, filled with nostalgia and a sense of loss for the way things used to be. The song reminisces about a time when the men were perceived as more authentic and the vices of modernity, such as drugs and vanity (symbolized by the use of hair gel), were not as prevalent. The lyrics evoke a sense of yearning for the simplicity and the genuine nature of the past, as well as the camaraderie and the romantic relationships that were considered more sincere.

The song also touches on the theme of change and the inevitable passage of time. It highlights the contrast between the vibrant youth of the past and the present, where only memories remain. The mention of the 'barra vieja,' or old gang, and the question of where they are now, underscores the solitude and the disappearance of a once close-knit community. The transformation of the once beautiful and desired woman, Mireya, into a 'poor ragged beggar' serves as a metaphor for the decay of time and the harsh reality that beauty and vigor are fleeting.

'Tiempos Viejos' is not just a song about reminiscing; it's a lament for the loss of an era that is perceived to be better than the present. The emotional weight of the song is carried by the powerful imagery and the personal connection the singer shares with the listener, as if speaking to an old friend. The recurring line '¡Si cuando me acuerdo me pongo a llorar!' ('When I remember, I start to cry!') encapsulates the deep sorrow and the longing for a time that can never be reclaimed.