Amparito
Maracaibo 15
Dancing with Longing: The Tale of 'Amparito' by Maracaibo 15
Maracaibo 15, a Venezuelan gaita group, is known for their lively and traditional music that often reflects the culture and stories of their homeland. Their song 'Amparito' is a vibrant track that tells the story of a man's encounter with a Colombian woman named Amparito during a trip to Barranquilla. The lyrics are filled with the energy and rhythm that are characteristic of the region's music, and they convey a narrative of infatuation and longing.
The song's protagonist is captivated by Amparito's charm and considers the idea of marrying her. However, the relationship does not go as planned, as Amparito seems to forget about him ('Te olvidaste del negrito') and moves to Cartagena. The repeated line 'Estaba pensando, me estabas buscando' suggests that the man was hopeful and believed that Amparito was actively seeking him out, only to be disappointed. The phrase 'Porque yo pensaba que me idolatrabas con el corazón' reveals his belief that she adored him wholeheartedly, which turns out to be a mere dream.
The music and lyrics of 'Amparito' evoke the feeling of a festive dance, with references to the joy of movement ('Amparito baila con soltura') and the cultural pride of Venezuelans ('Ella dice; que el venezolano / Ahí si tiene fuego en la cintura'). The song is a celebration of Latin American music and dance, while also telling a story of unrequited love and the universal experience of being enamored with someone who does not reciprocate those feelings. The upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make 'Amparito' a memorable song that invites listeners to dance, even as they empathize with the singer's romantic woes.