Odio (part. Drake)

Romeo Santos' 'Odio (feat. Drake)' is a poignant ballad that delves into the complex emotions of envy, regret, and unrequited love. The song begins with a reflection on how envy is a sign of admiration, and hate is the epitome of destruction, setting the stage for a narrative of love lost and the bitterness that follows. Romeo Santos, known for his smooth blend of bachata rhythms with R&B and pop influences, delivers a heartfelt performance that captures the pain of seeing a former lover move on.

The lyrics, primarily in Spanish with a verse by Drake in English, tell the story of a man who is haunted by the happiness of his ex-lover with another man. Santos expresses deep regret for not providing what his ex needed ('Un hogar, Una familia, Un buen porvenir') and acknowledges the pain of his own doing ('Perdón por hacerte daño'). The chorus reveals the inner turmoil of living 'aniquilado en el despecho' (annihilated in spite), consumed by jealousy ('Ardiendo por los celos'), and hating the man who makes her happy, even though he understands he has already lost the war for her love.

Drake's verse adds a different texture to the song, blending English rap with the Latin sound. He expresses his lingering attachment and desire to win back his love, suggesting a willingness to do anything for her, even though he knows she's with someone else. The song's title, 'Odio,' which means 'hate' in Spanish, encapsulates the central theme of the track: the destructive nature of harboring hatred for the person who now provides the happiness that the protagonist could not. The collaboration between Romeo Santos and Drake bridges cultural and linguistic gaps, creating a universal message about the struggles of letting go and the bitterness of watching a past love thrive without you.