Tomando Por Ella
Los Embajadores Vallenatos
Drowning Sorrows in Vallenato: The Heartache of 'Tomando Por Ella'
In 'Tomando Por Ella,' Los Embajadores Vallenatos delve into the depths of unrequited love and the pain it brings. The song opens with a plea from the protagonist to his friend Ramiro, asking him to join in drinking to forget a painful memory. The act of drinking is not just a social activity but a desperate attempt to numb the heartache caused by a love that is not reciprocated. The protagonist emphasizes that he is willing to pay for the drinks, highlighting his urgency and need for companionship in this moment of vulnerability.
The lyrics reveal a man who is deeply affected by his feelings for a woman who does not notice him. He expresses a desire to erase the memory of her, not because she has wronged him, but because the emotional toll of loving someone who does not love him back is too much to bear. The line 'No es que la llore porque me engaña, yo sé que un hombre no debe llorar' reflects societal expectations of masculinity, where men are discouraged from showing their emotions, especially through tears. Despite this, the protagonist's pain is palpable, and he seeks solace in alcohol and the company of his friend.
The song also touches on the theme of escape, as the protagonist contemplates leaving to avoid seeing the woman who causes him so much pain. The repeated sentiment 'Yo que me muero por ella, y ella no se fija en mi' underscores the one-sided nature of his affection and the hopelessness he feels. Los Embajadores Vallenatos use the traditional vallenato style to convey these emotions, blending heartfelt lyrics with the genre's characteristic accordion melodies, creating a poignant and relatable narrative of love and loss.