Tres Teclados

The song 'Tres Teclados' by Damas Gratis, a band known for its Cumbia Villera music—a subgenre of cumbia music that emerged from the slums of Argentina—dives into the theme of authenticity versus pretense. The lyrics are a direct confrontation to an individual, referred to as 'Chatrán' and 'Bigote,' who is accused of being a fraud. The song's title, which translates to 'Three Keyboards,' is likely a metaphorical reference to the person's attempt to appear more important or skilled than they are, with 'three keyboards' symbolizing excess or unnecessary show.

The lyrics suggest that the person is trying to pass off as a tough criminal ('chorro') but is nothing more than a low-level drug dealer ('tranza'). The singer questions the individual's criminal history, implying that their claims of being a hardened criminal do not match reality. The song also accuses the person of betraying their own by reporting ('denunciaste') younger individuals ('pibitos') to the authorities, labeling them as a 'snitch' ('ortiva'). This is a significant accusation in the context of the street code, where loyalty and reputation are paramount.

'Tres Teclados' is a scathing critique of those who adopt a false persona to gain respect or fear within a community. It's a call-out to remain true to one's roots and not to fabricate a criminal identity for the sake of image. The song's raw and direct language reflects the harsh realities of street life and the importance of authenticity within that culture.