Pichi

The song "Pichi" performed by Sara Montiel is a vivid portrayal of a certain type of character commonly found in early 20th-century Spanish culture: the 'chulo' or 'pimp'. The lyrics describe Pichi as a man who is popular among women ('chicuela') from Portillo to Arganzuela, two places in Madrid, suggesting his influence and charm span across a significant area. Pichi is depicted as someone who is confident and perhaps manipulative, as he demands 'tela' (money) from women and is unafraid to use physical force ('dos morrás') if his demands are not met. The term 'flagelador' can be interpreted as someone who is a punisher or a heartbreaker, adding to his tough persona.

The song also touches on the theme of vanity and the superficial aspects of relationships. The repeated lines about getting a 'permanén' (perm) and 'col-crém' (cold cream) suggest a focus on appearance and the lengths women go to in order to attract men like Pichi. The mention of 'pollito bien', which can be translated as a 'good little chick', implies a younger or more naive person who might be exploited by someone like Pichi. The narrator of the song, however, asserts her independence and resistance to Pichi's allure, indicating that she is not one to be taken in by his charms or to cater to his demands.

Sara Montiel, the artist behind the song, was a renowned Spanish actress and singer who became a cinematic icon in Spain and Latin America during the 1950s and 1960s. Her performance of "Pichi" likely carries with it her signature style of dramatic flair and emotional expression, which would have resonated with her audience at the time. The song, with its catchy melody and vivid storytelling, offers a glimpse into the social dynamics and gender roles of the era, as well as the enduring allure of the 'bad boy' archetype.