Del Mote

Los Chalchaleros' song "Del Mote" is a vibrant celebration of Northern Argentine culture, filled with rich imagery and local traditions. The lyrics take the listener on a journey from Oruro, a city in Bolivia known for its Diablada festival, to various regions in Northern Argentina, highlighting the unique customs and ways of life in each place. The song opens with a reference to Oruro, where the singer mentions falling in love with married women, a playful nod to the passionate and sometimes forbidden nature of love.

The song continues with references to traditional items like 'sara tata' (father maize) and vicuña wool, which are integral to the local culture. These elements symbolize the connection to the land and the importance of agriculture and craftsmanship in the region. The chorus invites the listener to Tucumán to share a meal of mote, a traditional dish made from cooked maize, emphasizing the communal and hospitable nature of the people.

As the journey progresses, the singer describes the simple pleasures of life in Salta and Jujuy, such as chewing coca leaves and smoking tobacco mixed with herbs. These activities are portrayed as ways to find solace and joy amidst the hardships of life. The song concludes with a poignant reflection on the fate of the poor, who seek comfort in festivities and music, finding temporary relief from their sorrows through the sound of the guitar. "Del Mote" is a heartfelt tribute to the resilience and spirit of the people in Northern Argentina, celebrating their traditions, love, and the power of music to bring people together.