Blues de La Libertad
Patricio Rey y Sus Redonditos de Ricota
The Intense Cry for Authentic Freedom in 'Blues de la libertad'
The song 'Blues de la libertad' by Los Redonditos de Ricota, an iconic Argentine rock band known for their poetic lyrics and social commentary, delves into the complex nature of freedom. The lyrics personify freedom as a living, breathing entity that is both a blessing and a burden. The repetition of phrases like 'siempre igual, todo igual, todo lo mismo' (always the same, all the same, all the same) suggests a critique of the monotony and superficiality in society's approach to freedom.
The song's portrayal of freedom as 'fiebre' (fever), 'oración' (prayer), and 'buena suerte' (good luck) indicates that freedom is something that is intensely desired, almost to the point of obsession, and yet it is also elusive and unpredictable. The reference to freedom not being 'fantástica' (fantastic) or a 'tormenta mental' (mental storm) for 'prestigio loco' (crazy prestige) implies that true freedom is not about grandiose ideas or intellectual debates, but rather about the raw and sometimes harsh realities of life.
The song also touches on the sacrifices made in the name of freedom, mentioning 'tanto hermano muerto' (so many dead brothers) and 'tanto amigo enloquecido' (so many crazed friends), which could be interpreted as a reference to the political turmoil and repression experienced in Argentina, particularly during the Dirty War. The band's history of addressing political issues in their music adds depth to this interpretation, making 'Blues de la libertad' a powerful statement on the cost of true freedom and the importance of not trivializing it.