Gallina Vieja

Los Tres Ases' song "Gallina Vieja" humorously narrates a culinary misadventure involving an old, tough chicken. The protagonist is invited to a meal where a variety of dishes are served, but none of them are to his liking. The repeated refrain, "Candela... que le den candela a esa gallina vieja," translates to "Fire... give fire to that old chicken," emphasizing his frustration with the tough meat.

The song uses the metaphor of the old chicken to highlight the protagonist's dissatisfaction and discomfort. Despite the host's efforts to please him, the protagonist cannot hide his discontent. He humorously explains that he values his teeth too much to eat such tough meat, suggesting that the chicken is so hard it could damage his denture. This exaggeration adds a comedic element to the song, making it relatable to anyone who has ever had an unpleasant dining experience.

Culturally, the song taps into the common Latin American trope of hospitality and the importance of food in social gatherings. The protagonist's polite yet firm refusal to eat the tough chicken reflects a delicate balance between maintaining social etiquette and expressing personal preference. The repeated chorus serves as a catchy and memorable way to drive home the central theme of the song, making it both entertaining and easy to sing along to.

"Gallina Vieja" is a light-hearted take on a universal experience, using humor and cultural references to create a song that is both amusing and relatable. The playful lyrics and catchy melody make it a memorable piece that showcases Los Tres Ases' ability to blend storytelling with music in a way that resonates with their audience.