Caballito

Carlos Vives' song 'Caballito' is a vibrant and playful track that captures the essence of childhood innocence and the joy of simple pleasures. The lyrics tell the story of a wooden horse, a cherished toy, that has become damaged. The singer recounts how an old man taught him to fix the toy, and together they engage in a playful dance, imitating the movements of the little horse.

The song is structured around a series of movements that the 'caballito,' or little horse, makes—shrinking, walking, galloping, jumping, freezing, and crouching—each described with a catchy refrain that invites listeners to join in the dance. The repetition of these actions, along with the onomatopoeic 'uelelei ei ela,' creates a sense of communal participation, reminiscent of traditional folk songs and children's games. The inclusion of an accordion player named Egidio further emphasizes the folkloric and communal atmosphere of the song, as he is invited to play along with the dance.

Towards the end of the song, the little horse grows tired and closes its eyes, prompting everyone to lull it to sleep. This conclusion brings the playful journey full circle, from the initial concern for the damaged toy to the final moment of rest. 'Caballito' is not just a song about a toy horse; it's a celebration of imagination, community, and the timeless tradition of storytelling through music and dance.