Procedentes de Jalisco llegaron a Mazatlán
Valentín Elizalde
A Tale of Betrayal and Valor: The Ballad of Jalisco's Gallos
Valentín Elizalde's song, 'Procedentes de Jalisco llegaron a Mazatlán,' is a poignant narrative that delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the harsh realities of life in the world of Mexican corridos. The song tells the story of three men from Jalisco who arrive in Mazatlán, only to meet a tragic end due to treachery. These men, described as 'gallos jugados' (brave roosters), are depicted as individuals who lived life on their own terms, unafraid and unyielding.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the events leading up to their demise. Abelardo, sensing danger, warns Eliseo about the ominous signs he perceives, such as the 'graznidos de buitres' (vulture cries). This foreshadowing sets the stage for the ambush that follows, where Abelardo, Eliseo, and Javier Barbas are attacked. The betrayal is palpable, as Javier, mortally wounded, laments the absence of friends who once claimed to value him. This moment underscores the theme of loyalty, or the lack thereof, in their final moments.
Elizalde's use of metaphors, such as comparing the fallen men to 'tiburones' (sharks) taken out of water by 'dedos traidores' (traitorous fingers), adds depth to the narrative. The song concludes with a somber farewell to the three men, acknowledging their bravery and the inevitability of their fate. This corrido serves as a tribute to their lives and a reminder of the dangers that come with their lifestyle. Through this song, Elizalde captures the essence of the corrido genre, blending storytelling with cultural and emotional resonance.