La Bamba
by Los Lobos
What is “La Bamba” really about?
If you’ve ever wondered what “La Bamba” by Los Lobos is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.
La Bamba' by Los Lobos is a vibrant and rhythmic song that expresses joy and the need for grace and spirit to dance the traditional Mexican folk dance.
So… what’s this song really about?
At its core, 'La Bamba' is a celebratory song that revolves around the ability to dance the bamba with grace and enthusiasm. The lyrics suggest that dancing well requires not only physical skill but also a certain charm and lively spirit, which the singer vows to embody for his beloved. The repetitive and upbeat rhythm of the chorus underscores the infectious joy and communal spirit typically associated with folk music and dance. The song's simple yet heartfelt message about striving to be one's best for another person gives it a universal appeal that transcends its specific cultural context. It portrays a deeply human desire to connect and share moments of joy through the universal language of music and dance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is 'La Bamba' about?
'La Bamba' is a traditional Mexican folk song popularized by Ritchie Valens and Los Lobos, celebrating the dance named bamba which requires grace and vitality.
Q: Who originally wrote 'La Bamba'?
The song 'La Bamba' is a traditional Mexican folk song of unknown origin, made famous internationally by Ritchie Valens in 1958.
Lyrics to “La Bamba”
19 ContributorsLa Bamba Lyrics
[Verso]
Para bailar la bamba
Para bailar la bamba
Se necesita una poca de gracia
Una poca de gracia pa' mí pa' ti
Y arriba y arriba
Ay arriba y arriba
Por ti seré, por ti seré, por ti seré
[Coro]
Bamba, bamba
Bamba, bamba
Bamba, bamba
Bamba, bamba
[Outro instrumental]