El Putón del Barrio (2004)

The song 'El Putón Del Barrio' by the Uruguayan rock band El Cuarteto de Nos is a narrative that delves into the life of a character named Rosario, who is referred to by the derogatory term 'El putón del barrio,' which translates to 'the neighborhood whore.' The lyrics, while seemingly straightforward, are laced with irony and social commentary, reflecting on the judgment and labels society places on individuals based on their sexual behavior.

The song tells the story of Rosario through the eyes of the community and the singer's personal experience. Rosario is known for having relationships with various influential men in the community, including a shopkeeper and a police commissioner. These relationships are gossiped about and are the reason behind the nickname given to Rosario. The narrative takes a turn when it reveals that the singer, despite the societal judgment, ends up marrying Rosario. This twist highlights the complexity of human relationships and the hypocrisy often found in societal norms.

El Cuarteto de Nos is known for their satirical and often controversial lyrics, and 'El Putón Del Barrio' is no exception. The song uses humor and sarcasm to criticize the double standards regarding sexuality, particularly the stigmatization of women's sexual freedom. It also touches on serious issues like cancer, suggesting that Rosario's lifestyle may have led to health consequences. The song's narrative structure and the use of a colloquial term in the title suggest a critique of the way society gossips and ostracizes individuals while also exploring themes of love, marriage, and the human condition.