La Martina

Antonio Aguilar was a prominent Mexican singer, actor, songwriter, and producer, known for his significant contributions to the ranchera, mariachi, and corrido music genres. His song 'La Martina' tells a dramatic story of love, betrayal, and consequences, which is a common theme in traditional Mexican ballads known as 'corridos'. These songs often narrate tales of personal experiences, historical events, and cultural stories, and are known for their straightforward narrative style and emotional delivery.

The lyrics of 'La Martina' recount the story of a young woman named Martina who, at the age of fifteen, gave her love to the narrator. However, by the time she turned sixteen, she betrayed him. The song unfolds as a dialogue, with Martina's husband questioning her about the signs of infidelity he has noticed. Martina tries to cover up the truth with lies about a pistol, a watch, and a horse that do not belong to her husband. The tension builds as the husband's suspicions grow, leading to a confrontation that reveals Martina's betrayal.

The climax of the song is tragic and violent, as Martina is taken to her parents by her husband, who accuses her of treachery. Her parents, unable to bear the shame, tell the husband to take her away, as they are not to blame for her actions. The song ends with Martina on her knees, receiving six shots from her husband, while the 'friend of the horse'—presumably Martina's lover—flees and never returns. 'La Martina' is a powerful narrative that reflects the cultural values and social norms of the time, where honor and fidelity were of utmost importance, and betrayal was met with severe consequences.