Celia Cruz

Lyrics

1 ContributorBabalu LyricsBabaluuuuuu………
Babalu
Babalu aye
Babalu aye
Babalu aaaaye

Ta empezando lo velorio
Que le hacemo a Babalu
Dame diez y siete velas
Ay Pa ponerla en cruz

Y Dame un cabo de tabaco mayenye
Y un jarrito de aguardiente
Dame un poco de dinero mayenye
Pa' que me de la suerte

CORO
Yo Quiere pedi
Que mi negro me quiera
Que tenga dinero
Y que no se muera

Ay! Yo le quiere pedi a Babalu
Ay! un negrito muy santo como tu
Que no tenga otro negro
Y que a mi me quiera
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Babalu ayeEmbed

Are you ready to salsa your way into the vibrant world of Afro-Cuban music? Get your dancing shoes on because we're about to dive into the infectious rhythms and soulful melodies of one of the most iconic songs in Latin music history: "Babalu" by the legendary Celia Cruz. This timeless masterpiece has captivated audiences around the globe for decades, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape.

Centuries ago, the Yoruba people of West Africa brought their rich cultural heritage to the shores of Cuba through the transatlantic slave trade. This fusion of African rhythms and Spanish melodies formed the foundation of what is known as Afro-Cuban music, and "Babalu" is a perfect embodiment of this majestic art form.

Released in 1954 as part of the album "Cubanacan," "Babalu" quickly gained popularity and became one of Celia Cruz's signature songs. Cruz, often referred to as the "Queen of Salsa," was an unrivaled force in the world of Latin music, and her powerful voice brought a unique energy to every performance she delivered. With "Babalu," she masterfully showcases her vocal prowess, captivating listeners with her passionate delivery.

The song itself has a magnetic and infectious quality that will transport you to the bustling streets of Havana, where the air is thick with the essence of salsa and the spirit of celebration. As the lively beats of the congas, bongos, and trumpets intertwine, "Babalu" unleashes a wave of joy and excitement that is impossible to resist.

But what does "Babalu" mean? Though the song's title might seem mysterious, it is derived from the Yoruba language and is a reference to an Orisha named Babalú-Ayé. In Yoruba mythology, Babalú-Ayé is the deity associated with healing and infectious diseases. This connection to Babalú-Ayé imbues the song with a sense of spiritual energy and serves as a testament to the enduring power of music to heal and uplift the human spirit.

About Babalu

Babalu" is a mesmerizing blend of African and Latin influences that showcases the extraordinary talents of Celia Cruz and her band. The song opens with an irresistible rhythm section, featuring the pulsating beats of the conga drums, bongos, and timbales. These percussion instruments lay the foundation for the entire composition, infusing it with an energizing and hypnotic groove.

Celia Cruz's vocals instantly command your attention, as her powerful voice bursts through the opening bars. With each note, she effortlessly captures the essence of the song, infusing it with her unparalleled charisma and magnetism. Her distinctive voice soars above the music, conveying a range of emotions and inviting the listener to join her on a musical journey.

The lyrics of "Babalu" add another layer of depth to the song. Sung in Spanish and interspersed with Yoruba chants, they tell a story of struggle, endurance, and triumph. Through her vocal delivery, Celia Cruz channels the pain and resilience of the human experience, connecting with listeners on a profound level.

As the song progresses, the brass section makes its grand entrance, injecting "Babalu" with an exuberant burst of energy. The soaring trumpets and saxophone harmonies add a touch of elegance to the composition, elevating it to new heights. The musicians' technical virtuosity shines through as they effortlessly navigate through intricate melodic lines and perform dazzling solos.

One of the most captivating aspects of "Babalu" is its ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles and genres. It incorporates elements of Afro-Cuban jazz, mambo, and rumba, creating a truly unique and multifaceted sonic experience. This stylistic fusion demonstrates Celia Cruz's musical versatility and her willingness to experiment with different sounds.

Throughout the song, the interplay between the various instruments and Celia Cruz's vocals creates a dynamic and engaging listening experience. Each section of the song builds upon the previous one, adding layers of complexity and intensity. The rhythmic breaks and vocal improvisations keep the listener on their toes, ensuring that "Babalu" never loses its captivating allure.

Beyond its musical brilliance, "Babalu" holds a special place in the hearts of Latin music enthusiasts as a symbol of pride and cultural resilience. It represents a celebration of Afro-Cuban heritage and serves as a reminder of the power of music to transcend boundaries and unite people from all walks of life.

So next time you find yourself craving a dose of vibrant and infectious music, remember to tune in to "Babalu" by Celia Cruz. Get ready to be swept away by the hypnotic rhythms and soulful melodies that have made this timeless classic an enduring masterpiece in the world of Latin music. Let the music take control and allow yourself to be transported to the sun-soaked streets of Havana, where the spirit of "Babalu" lives on.

• Release Date: None
• Artist: Celia Cruz