Mis Tres Animales
Los Tucanes de Tijuana
Unveiling the Metaphorical Menagerie in 'Mis Tres Animales'
The song 'Mis Tres Animales' by Los Tucanes de Tijuana is a cleverly veiled narrative that uses the metaphor of animals to discuss the illicit drug trade. The Mexican group, known for their norteo style, often incorporates stories and characters from real life into their music, sometimes touching on controversial themes such as narcotics trafficking.
The 'three animals' mentioned in the song are not literal animals but represent three types of drugs: the parrot (perico) is slang for cocaine, the rooster (gallo) for marijuana, and the goat (chiva) for heroin. The lyrics boast about the success and demand for these 'animals,' comparing their sales to that of fast food, highlighting the ubiquity and profitability of the drug trade. The narrator acknowledges the dangers associated with this lifestyle, including the constant threat of death and law enforcement, but also revels in the wealth and power it brings.
The song also touches on the personal transformation of the narrator, from poverty to becoming a 'great man' due to the drug trade. It reflects on the lavish spending and attraction of women due to newfound wealth, as well as the moral justification that people are not forced to consume drugs; it's their choice. The song's catchy rhythm and seemingly light-hearted talk of animals mask a deeper, darker commentary on the impact of drugs on society and the individuals involved in their distribution.