Akakaw (part. Los Mirlos)

Renata Flores' song 'Akakaw' is a vibrant blend of traditional Andean sounds and contemporary beats, featuring the legendary Peruvian cumbia band Los Mirlos. The song's title, 'Akakaw,' is an onomatopoeic representation of the sound of the charango, a traditional Andean string instrument, which is often used in Andean music to create a sense of excitement and energy. The repeated phrase 'está que quema' translates to 'it's burning,' suggesting that the music is hot, lively, and impossible to resist.

The lyrics are a mix of Spanish and Quechua, the indigenous language of the Andean region. This bilingual approach not only pays homage to Flores' cultural heritage but also reflects the fusion of modern and traditional elements in her music. The song speaks of the heat of the moment, the joy of dance, and the communal spirit of celebration. It evokes images of people dancing together, united by the infectious rhythm of the music. The mention of the jungle ('yunka') heating up and the water heating up could be metaphors for the environmental concerns facing the region, or simply a way to describe the intensity of the party atmosphere.

The song also touches on themes of identity and resistance. Lyrics such as 'Mana munankuchu ñaty kanaykita' ('They don't want your nose to be flat') and 'Runa kasqanchikta qonqanchis' ('We forget that we are people') suggest a critique of cultural assimilation and a call to remember and celebrate indigenous identity. The song is a powerful statement of cultural pride, encouraging listeners to embrace their roots and resist the forces that seek to erase them.