Bule Bule
Los Apson
Unpacking the Playful Mockery in 'Bule Bule'
The song 'Bule Bule' by Los Apson is a playful, yet potentially insensitive, tune from the 1960s that reflects the attitudes of its time. Los Apson was a Mexican rock 'n' roll band known for their covers of American hits as well as their original songs, often characterized by a humorous and satirical approach. 'Bule Bule' is no exception, as it tells the story of a 'curious' overweight girl who becomes the subject of ridicule and teasing. The repetitive chorus 'Bule bule' is an onomatopoeic representation of the mockery she faces.
The lyrics describe the girl's struggles with finding clothes that fit and her appearance when she walks, which is likened to rolling. This description is followed by the taunting chant of 'Bule bule,' suggesting that her physical appearance is a spectacle for others. When the girl goes to the beach and enters the water, the reaction is the same, with people starting to shout the same chant. The song uses humor to address the subject of body image, but it does so in a way that would likely be considered body-shaming by today's standards.
While 'Bule Bule' may have been received as a light-hearted song at the time of its release, it brings to light issues of body image and the cruelty of public ridicule. The song's catchy tune and simple lyrics made it popular, but it also serves as a cultural artifact that shows how societal attitudes towards body image have evolved over time. The song's meaning can be a starting point for discussions about the impact of body shaming and the importance of promoting body positivity.