DIABLO
ROSALÍA
The Lure of Fame and the Loss of Authenticity
The song "DIABLO" by Spanish singer-songwriter ROSALÍA delves into the themes of change, loss of authenticity, and the corrupting influence of fame and wealth. The lyrics suggest a narrative of someone who has been transformed by their newfound status, to the point where they are no longer recognizable to the narrator. The repeated lines "Si lo que pasó / Ya no pasará" (If what happened / Will not happen again) and "Si Dios te lo da / Te lo quitará" (If God gives it to you / He will take it away) imply a sense of finality and the transient nature of life's gifts, possibly referring to the ephemeral nature of fame and fortune.
The chorus, where ROSALÍA sings about someone who shines like the moon and is as precious as her jewelry, indicates admiration for the person's brilliance. However, this admiration is juxtaposed with the revelation that the person who now appears on TV is not the one the narrator once knew. This contrast highlights the theme of lost authenticity and the idea that success can change people, often for the worse. The mention of stepping on Lamborghinis symbolizes a lifestyle of luxury that may have contributed to this change.
The latter part of the song introduces the concept of loyalty and integrity, with ROSALÍA asserting that she never loses her loyalty, not even for money ("guita"). The phrase "La amistad la rompe el diablo" (Friendship is broken by the devil) suggests that it is the devil—or the temptation and greed associated with wealth—that destroys relationships. The song concludes with a reflection on the duality of the individual's character, indicating that the person has a side that is night and day, further emphasizing the transformation and inner conflict caused by fame and materialism.