“1977” by Ana Tijoux, English translation and analysis

“1977” Translation
Album1977, released 2010
Style: Rap, hip-hop influence, autobiographical, origin story. “1977” is an autobiographical rap about Ana Tijoux’s birth, her childhood, and the start of her career. It is a catchy and poetic song. This song was also featured in an episode of Breaking Bad.
Countries: France (born), Chile (parents)
Listen: YouTube

Translation:

Announcer audio clips:
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Cuando las serpientes se evolucionaron —
Más rapido —
Que en muchas creencias —
Se nota la diferencia entre una serpiente venenosa y otra que no lo es por las marcas de dejan…

When snakes evolved —
Faster —
That in many religions — [*alt. That many cultures believe –]
One can tell the difference between a poisonous snake and one that is not (poisonous) by the markings they leave behind…
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“Algo Con Sentido” by Calle 13 feat. PG-13, English translation

“Something With Meaning” Lyrics
AlbumResidente o Visitante (Resident or Visitor), 2007
Style: Hilarious but explicit rap song, slow tempo, increasingly disturbing lyrics
Country: Puerto Rico
Listen: YouTube. This song is hilarious because of its disturbing build-up and then the abrupt end after the first end. Residente Calle 13’s voice acting in this song is great.

***Warning: Explicit language, graphic descriptions of violence.***

Translation:

La gente está jugando con mi mente
Y ando con la mirada borracha.
Mi cabeza está pensando en remolacha,
Por eso no tiene sentido esta guaracha.

People are playing with my head
And I walk around with a drunk look.
My head is thinking about beets;
That’s why this song makes no sense.

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“Todo Tiende” by Ojos de Brujo, English translation of lyrics

“Todo Tiende”
Album: Techarí (Free), 2006
Style: Fast-paced flamenco/hip hop.
Country: Spain
Listen: YouTube

Translation:

Mendigando eternidades,
Mendigos piden a mendigos
Lo que no tienen ni pueden darse.

Panhandling eternities,
Vagrants ask vagrants
For what they do not have nor can give each other.

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