Champetua
Oscar Prince
Embracing Identity Through Dance: The Story of 'Champetua'
Oscar Prince's song 'Champetua' is a vibrant celebration of identity and cultural pride, set against the backdrop of a lively discotheque. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who, despite her reserved demeanor in public, cannot resist the infectious rhythm of champeta music. Champeta, a genre originating from the Afro-Colombian communities of Cartagena, is known for its energetic beats and danceable tunes. The song highlights the woman's internal conflict between maintaining her composed image and her genuine love for champeta, which she tries to keep hidden from her friends.
The chorus, with its repetitive chant of 'Champetua,' serves as both a label and a badge of honor. The term 'champetua' is used to describe someone who loves champeta music, but it also carries a connotation of being unrefined or unsophisticated. Oscar Prince challenges this stereotype by encouraging the woman, and by extension the listeners, to embrace their true selves and cultural roots. The lyrics 'A las cosas hay que llamarlas por su nombre' (Things should be called by their name) emphasize the importance of authenticity and self-acceptance.
The song also touches on the broader theme of societal expectations and the pressure to conform. The woman goes to great lengths to disguise her love for champeta, even wearing a wig and hiding in the shadows. However, the infectious joy of the music ultimately brings everyone together on the dance floor, breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of community. 'Champetua' is a call to celebrate one's heritage and to find joy in the music that moves us, regardless of societal judgments.