Que No Se Duerma El Fueyista
Luciano Pereyra
The Unyielding Spirit of the Fueyista
Luciano Pereyra's song "Que No Se Duerma El Fueyista" is a vibrant celebration of traditional Argentine folk music and dance, particularly the zamba. The lyrics evoke a lively scene where bandoneons, a type of accordion central to Argentine music, play nostalgic tunes in various keys, inviting everyone to dance. The imagery of red ponchos slicing through the air like daggers adds a dramatic flair, symbolizing the passionate and spirited nature of the festivities.
The repeated plea, "Que no se duerma el fueyista," which translates to "Don't let the fueyista fall asleep," serves as a rallying cry to keep the energy and music alive. The fueyista, likely a reference to the person playing the fueye (a colloquial term for the bandoneon), is urged to stay awake and keep the music going, especially during the vibrant and often raucous carnival celebrations. The mention of the "duende ciego del vino" or the "blind spirit of wine" awakening during these times highlights the intoxicating and liberating effect of the festivities.
The song also touches on personal connections formed during these celebrations. The singer describes being captivated by someone's gaze and becoming entangled in their embrace, even while being somewhat inebriated. This adds a layer of romance and human connection to the festive atmosphere. The call for the fueyista to play an old zamba, whether in Do, Re, Mi, or Fa, emphasizes a longing for the traditional and familiar, underscoring the cultural importance of these musical traditions.