El Ropavejero

The song 'El Ropavejero' by Cri-Cri, also known as Francisco Gabilondo Soler, is a playful and nostalgic piece that paints a vivid picture of a traditional figure in Mexican culture: the rag-and-bone man, known in Spanish as 'el ropavejero' or 'el tlacuache' (the latter being a colloquial term for an opossum, used metaphorically here). The song's lyrics describe the character's calls as he wanders through the city streets, offering to buy and sell a variety of used and worn-out items, from bottles and shoes to newspapers and old hats.

The song's catchy and repetitive chorus, 'Cambio, vendo y compro por igual!' (I exchange, sell, and buy all the same!), encapsulates the essence of the rag-and-bone man's trade. This character is a symbol of recycling and reuse, a common sight in many Mexican neighborhoods, where he would shout out his services, offering to take away unwanted items. The inclusion of humorous items for trade, such as 'malcriados' (naughty children) and 'comadres chismosas' (gossipy women), adds a layer of humor and social commentary to the song, reflecting the community's quirks and dynamics.

Cri-Cri's music is known for its storytelling and ability to capture the imagination of both children and adults. 'El Ropavejero' is no exception, as it not only entertains but also preserves a piece of cultural history, highlighting the importance of these street vendors in the social fabric of Mexican life. The song is a celebration of a bygone era, evoking nostalgia for a simpler time when such figures were a more prominent part of daily life.