Los Tres Pelones

La Arrolladora Banda El Limón's song "Los Tres Pelones" is a bold and defiant anthem that addresses the struggles and resilience of Mexican immigrants in the United States. The lyrics are a direct response to the stereotypes and prejudices faced by these immigrants, particularly from Americans (referred to as 'gringos' in the song). The singer proudly declares that he and his companions are not in the U.S. to steal jobs but to work hard and earn a living. This sentiment is encapsulated in the line, "No vine a robarles nada, vine a trabajar, cabrones," which translates to "I didn't come to steal anything, I came to work, damn it."

The song also touches on the bureaucratic challenges faced by immigrants, such as the lack of proper documentation. The singer dismisses the need for a license or identification, instead highlighting the 'green papers' he earned through construction work. This symbolizes the hard-earned money and the significant contributions of immigrants to the economy, despite the lack of formal recognition. The imagery of driving a large truck ('trocononón') through the fields ('cigueles') further emphasizes the pride and dignity in their labor.

Moreover, the song challenges the notion that immigrants are taking jobs away from Americans. The singer sarcastically points out that the jobs they are accused of stealing are often those that Americans do not want, such as farming and cleaning bathrooms. This is a powerful critique of the hypocrisy and xenophobia that immigrants often face. The repeated refrain, "Si en mi rancho hubiera jale, me regresaría mañana," meaning "If there were work in my hometown, I would go back tomorrow," underscores the idea that these immigrants are in the U.S. out of necessity, not choice. The song is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and resilience of immigrant communities.