Te tienes que vender

Los Chichos, a renowned Spanish rumba flamenca group, delve into the heart-wrenching story of a woman trapped in a cycle of despair and degradation in their song 'Te tienes que vender.' The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who has abandoned her family and the man she once loved, only to find herself selling her body to survive. The song's title, which translates to 'You have to sell yourself,' sets the tone for a narrative steeped in sorrow and regret.

The song opens with a plea for the woman to change her ways, highlighting the self-destructive path she has chosen. The lyrics suggest that she has resorted to prostitution, selling her body 'for a piece of paper,' a metaphor for money. This act is portrayed as a form of punishment, a 'vastante castigo,' indicating that she is forced to be with men she does not desire. The repetition of the phrase 'te tienes que vender' underscores the inevitability and hopelessness of her situation.

As the song progresses, it becomes clear that her choices have led to severe consequences. She has abandoned her family, including a daughter she once cherished. Now, she finds herself alone and rejected by those she once held dear. The lyrics emphasize the emotional and physical suffering she endures, being bought by men who lack empathy and compassion. The recurring lines about her misfortune and the men who 'do not feel' highlight the dehumanizing nature of her existence.

'Los Chichos' use their signature blend of flamenco and rumba to convey a powerful message about the devastating effects of poor choices and societal pressures. The song serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by those who find themselves in desperate situations, and the emotional toll it takes on their lives and relationships.