21 balas

Liriko Wan's song "21 balas" is a raw and poignant narrative that delves into the artist's tumultuous life experiences, marked by early exposure to drugs, gang life, and personal loss. The song opens with a vivid depiction of his youth, where he recounts smoking his first joint at 13 and quickly becoming adept at rolling them. This early initiation into a life of vice is underscored by his disappointment to his mother, especially on Mother's Day, a culturally significant day in many Latin American countries.

As the song progresses, Liriko Wan describes his teenage years filled with gang affiliations and street fights, yet he never resorted to using a knife. His life took a temporary pause when his mother fell ill, prompting him to reconsider his actions to avoid causing her further distress. However, the respite was short-lived, and by 16, he was engulfed in negative experiences, symbolized by the metaphor of cutting off an angel's wings, indicating a loss of innocence and hope.

The recurring motif of "21 balas" (21 bullets) serves as a powerful metaphor for the cumulative impact of his life's struggles and sins, likened to the seven deadly sins. Each bullet represents a significant event or hardship, culminating in the devastating loss of his mother on December 21st, a date that marks a turning point in his life. Despite these challenges, Liriko Wan's resilience shines through as he continues to pursue his passion for rap, using his music as an outlet to express his truth and confront the harsh realities of his past.

The song is a testament to the artist's journey of survival and self-discovery, highlighting themes of regret, resilience, and the quest for redemption. It paints a vivid picture of the struggles faced by many young people in marginalized communities, offering a voice to those who often go unheard.