Sicarios

Rubén Blades' song 'Sicarios' delves into the grim and shadowy world of hitmen, offering a raw and unfiltered look at the life of those who live by the gun. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a hitman preparing for a job, highlighting the tension, fear, and cold pragmatism that define his existence. The song opens with a warning about the dangers of the road, setting a tone of constant vigilance and alertness that permeates the life of a sicario. The hitman is instructed to stay calm and focused, as there is no turning back once the mission is underway.

The narrative then shifts to the specifics of the job, with detailed instructions about the target and the logistics of the hit. The hitman is reminded of the color and make of the car, the number of people inside, and the position of the target. This meticulous attention to detail underscores the calculated and methodical nature of the hitman's work. The lyrics also reveal a sense of fatalism and detachment, as the hitman acknowledges that he doesn't know if the target is good or bad, only that he has been marked for death by the cartel's orders. This detachment is further emphasized by the hitman's lack of compassion for the target, viewing the act of killing as a necessary part of his survival.

The chorus, 'Hoy cambiará la vida' (Today life will change), reflects the irreversible impact of the hit, not just on the target but also on the hitman himself. The repetition of this line underscores the gravity of the moment and the life-altering consequences of their actions. The song concludes with a chilling acceptance of the hitman's role in this violent world, as he expresses no remorse for the target's death, only a pragmatic focus on completing the job and moving on. Through 'Sicarios,' Rubén Blades offers a powerful commentary on the brutal realities of the criminal underworld, where life and death are dictated by the whims of the cartel, and survival often comes at the cost of one's humanity.