Tengo

In 'Tengo,' Maelo Ruiz delves into the complexities of love, longing, and the bittersweet nature of romantic relationships. The song is a heartfelt salsa piece that captures the essence of yearning and the perpetual effort to rekindle a love that seems to slip away. Ruiz's lyrics are rich with metaphors and vivid imagery, painting a picture of a man who is deeply in love and yet tormented by the absence of his beloved.

The song opens with the singer expressing that he possesses something invaluable, a feeling that is worth its weight in gold. This 'cosita' symbolizes the profound emotions and memories he holds dear. He speaks of a small room with the expanse of the universe, a metaphor for his heart that is filled with boundless love and dreams. The 'ventana de ilusiones' or 'window of illusions' represents his hope and desire to fill the hearts of those who suffer for love, indicating a universal empathy and connection to others' emotional struggles.

As the song progresses, Ruiz reveals the duality of his feelings. He describes his lover's memory as a virus that sometimes brings him joy and at other times erases his soul. This juxtaposition highlights the torment of love, where the same memories that bring happiness can also cause deep pain. The chorus emphasizes his determination to win back his lover, promising to do whatever it takes, even placing the moon at her feet. This grand gesture signifies his willingness to go to great lengths to prove his undying love.

The song also touches on the inevitability of love's challenges. Ruiz acknowledges that love brings both good and bad, and there are moments when he contemplates being better off alone. However, he ultimately admits that he cannot live without his beloved. The imagery of rain and sunshine in the latter part of the song symbolizes the ups and downs of their relationship, with a cautionary note about the deeper burns that come from the moon, perhaps alluding to the hidden pains of love that are not always visible.

'Tengo' is a poignant exploration of love's enduring power and the relentless pursuit of rekindling a lost romance. Maelo Ruiz's soulful delivery and the evocative lyrics make it a timeless piece that resonates with anyone who has experienced the highs and lows of love.