El Baile de Los Que Sobran
Los Prisioneros
Dancing on the Edge: The Poignant Message of 'El Baile de Los Que Sobran' by Los Prisioneros
The song 'El Baile de Los Que Sobran' by the Chilean rock band Los Prisioneros is a powerful social commentary on the disillusionment and marginalization of youth. Released in the 1980s during the Pinochet dictatorship, the song resonates with the frustrations of a generation that was promised a bright future but found itself excluded from the opportunities that were supposed to be available to everyone.
The lyrics speak to the experience of growing up with certain expectations—being told to study and work hard because 'men are brothers and should work together'—only to realize that the promise of a fair and just society is not being fulfilled. The 'twelve games' mentioned in the song likely refer to the years of schooling, which end up being futile for those who are not given the same chances as others. The song's chorus, 'Únanse al baile de los que sobran,' which translates to 'Join the dance of those who are left over,' is an ironic invitation to those who have been let down by the system to come together in their shared struggle.
Los Prisioneros were known for their politically charged lyrics and their role in voicing the concerns of the oppressed during a time of political unrest in Chile. 'El Baile de Los Que Sobran' is a testament to their legacy, capturing the essence of a society that fails to provide for all its members. The song's enduring popularity is a reflection of its universal theme of inequality and the fight for a better future, which continues to resonate with listeners around the world.
