Quiero ser libre

The song "Quiero ser libre" by Los Chichos, a Spanish rumba group known for their flamenco-inspired music, is a poignant narrative of a person's yearning for freedom from the confines of a prison cell. The lyrics convey a deep sense of regret, sorrow, and a desperate desire for liberation. The protagonist reflects on their past actions, which have led to their current state of incarceration, and the emotional turmoil that comes with it.

The repeated chorus, 'Libre, libre quiero ser, quiero ser, quiero ser libre,' which translates to 'Free, free I want to be, I want to be, I want to be free,' serves as a powerful and haunting refrain throughout the song. It emphasizes the central theme of the song: the universal human longing for freedom and the pain of being deprived of it. The lyrics also touch upon the feelings of betrayal and abandonment, as the protagonist laments over being forgotten by a loved one and the lack of visits from friends, which adds to the sense of isolation and despair.

Moreover, the song hints at a backstory of crime and punishment, as the protagonist admits to their wrongdoing and the resulting consequences. The mention of seeking solace in a fellow inmate's company and the emotional breakdown in the prison yard further illustrate the vulnerability and the emotional struggle faced by those behind bars. "Quiero ser libre" is not just a personal plea for freedom, but also a commentary on the human condition and the societal aspects of crime, punishment, and the criminal justice system.