Qué Te Pasa a Ti

Ismael Rivera, affectionately known as 'Maelo', was a renowned Puerto Rican salsa singer and composer, often hailed as 'El Sonero Mayor'. His music is characterized by its soulful and often socially conscious lyrics, set to the infectious rhythms of salsa. 'Qué Te Pasa a Ti' is a song that encapsulates the essence of Rivera's style, blending personal narrative with a broader social message.

The song 'Qué Te Pasa a Ti' speaks to the judgment and condemnation the singer anticipates from others because of his relationship with a woman who is implied to be socially looked down upon. The lyrics express a defiant stance against societal norms and the gossip that comes with stepping outside of them. Rivera asserts that this woman has revitalized him, lifting him up when he was 'vencido' or defeated. The repeated phrase '¿Qué te pasa a ti?' which translates to 'What's wrong with you?' or 'What's the matter with you?', challenges the listener to reflect on their own prejudices and the reasons behind their judgment.

The song also celebrates the transformative power of love and the personal happiness it brings, regardless of others' opinions. Rivera's message is clear: he has found joy and a renewed sense of life with this woman, and that is all that matters to him. The song's upbeat tempo and Rivera's impassioned delivery encourage listeners to dance and enjoy life, while also contemplating the deeper message of love, acceptance, and living free from the constraints of societal judgment.