Bisabuelo

Kapanga's song 'Bisabuelo' is a poignant reflection on the immigrant experience, spanning generations and highlighting the cyclical nature of hope and disillusionment. The lyrics begin by recounting the journey of the narrator's great-grandfather, who arrived in a new land a hundred years ago, seeking a better future. This historical context sets the stage for a narrative filled with hardship, as the great-grandfather's soul is marked by the pain and hunger of war, leaving Europe behind in search of a new beginning. The imagery of masses arriving in new lands evokes the waves of immigrants who have shaped many nations, bringing with them dreams and resilience.

The song then shifts to the present, where the narrator faces a similar struggle. Despite the great-grandfather's sacrifices and the promise of a better life, the current generation finds itself in a dire situation, unable to work and forced to leave their homeland. This juxtaposition of past and present underscores the recurring theme of migration driven by economic and social instability. The dialogue within the lyrics, where the narrator explains their need to leave, adds a personal and emotional layer to the story, making the listener empathize with the ongoing plight of those seeking a better life.

In a powerful twist, the narrator addresses their great-grandfather directly, expressing that if he were alive, he wouldn't understand the current situation. The irony is palpable as the narrator reveals that they have returned to their ancestral land in search of a better future, mirroring the great-grandfather's original journey. The final line, '¡Bisabuelo!, viniste al pedo,' translates to 'Great-grandfather, you came for nothing,' encapsulating the sense of futility and frustration felt by the narrator. This line serves as a stark reminder of the unending cycle of migration and the elusive nature of the 'better future' that so many seek.