La Candela

Yerba Buena's song 'La Candela' is a vibrant celebration of dance, culture, and spiritual connection. The lyrics are a mix of Spanish and Yoruba, reflecting the Afro-Cuban roots of the music. The Yoruba chants in the intro set a spiritual tone, invoking the Orishas, deities in the Yoruba religion, to bless the dance and ensure good fortune. This spiritual invocation is a nod to the syncretic nature of Afro-Cuban culture, where African religious practices blend with local traditions.

The recurring theme of 'la candela' (the flame) symbolizes the fiery energy and passion of the dance. The lyrics encourage listeners to 'prende la yerba buena' (light the good herb), which can be interpreted as a call to embrace the positive vibes and let loose on the dance floor. The mention of 'Orishas' and 'Van Van' pays homage to influential Afro-Cuban musical groups, grounding the song in a rich cultural heritage. The song's structure, with its repetitive choruses and energetic verses, mirrors the cyclical and communal nature of traditional Afro-Cuban music and dance.

The song also emphasizes respect for the 'old school' and the continuity of cultural traditions. By referencing 'la vieja old school' and 'conceptos callejeros' (street concepts), Yerba Buena acknowledges the importance of past influences while celebrating contemporary expressions of Afro-Cuban identity. The vibrant imagery of dancing, mixing mojitos, and moving the spoon ('mueve la cuchara') adds a festive, almost ritualistic element to the song, inviting everyone to join in the celebration. 'La Candela' is not just a song; it's an invitation to experience the joy, spirituality, and cultural richness of Afro-Cuban music and dance.