Vallenato Apretao
Silvestre Dangond
The Magic of Vallenato: A Dance of Love and Connection
Silvestre Dangond's song "Vallenato Apretao" is a vibrant celebration of love, dance, and cultural connection. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is captivated by a woman's beauty and charm from afar. Her mesmerizing presence and enchanting black eyes make him dream while awake. He attempts to impress her by singing in English, but his efforts are clumsy, leading to laughter and a magical moment of connection between them.
The woman requests a vallenato, a traditional Colombian music genre known for its accordion-driven melodies and heartfelt lyrics. As the vallenato plays, the atmosphere transforms, and the night becomes perfect. She removes her shoes, symbolizing her comfort and readiness to let loose, and they begin to dance closely, creating a sense of intimacy and joy. The repeated phrase "la tengo" (I have her) emphasizes the man's delight in having her close, dancing and speaking in his native coastal dialect.
The song also highlights the lengths the man is willing to go for this woman. He is ready to dance to any rhythm, follow her anywhere, and make her the center of attention. The lyrics convey a sense of admiration and devotion, as he feels like he's on the moon when he's with her. The imagery of lighting up the streets and filling the stadium with her presence underscores her captivating influence and the joy she brings to his life. "Vallenato Apretao" is a testament to the power of music and dance in bringing people together and creating unforgettable moments of connection and happiness.