Te Quiero

Susana Baca's 'Te Quiero' is a profound declaration of love that intertwines personal affection with social and political consciousness. The song's lyrics, originally penned by Uruguayan poet Mario Benedetti, are brought to life by Baca's soulful voice, which adds layers of depth and emotion. The song is not just a simple love ballad; it is a celebration of a partnership that is deeply rooted in shared values and collective struggle.

The repeated line 'Si te quiero es porque eres mi amor, mi cómplice y todo' sets the tone for the song, emphasizing that love is multifaceted. It is not just about romantic feelings but also about companionship and solidarity. The phrase 'en la calle codo a codo, somos mucho más que dos' suggests that their love extends beyond the private sphere into the public domain, where they stand together, united in their fight for justice and equality.

Baca highlights the qualities she admires in her partner, such as their hands that 'trabajan por la justicia' and their eyes that 'siembran futuro.' These lines suggest that her love is deeply connected to her partner's commitment to social causes. The song also touches on themes of rebellion and resistance, as seen in the line 'te quiero porque tu boca sabe gritar rebeldía.' This indicates that their love is not passive but active and engaged in the world around them.

The song culminates in a vision of a better world, where 'la gente viva feliz aunque no tenga permiso.' This utopian ideal reflects the couple's shared dream of a society where happiness and justice prevail. 'Te Quiero' is thus a powerful anthem that celebrates love as a force for social change, making it a timeless piece that resonates with listeners who believe in the transformative power of love and solidarity.