El toro negro
Cumbia Soledeña Lyrics

The song "El Toro Negro" by Cumbia Soledeña is a celebration of the corraleja, a bullfighting tradition that originated in the Caribbean coast of Colombia. The song tells the story of the bull, the "toro negro," that comes to the corraleja, an arena where men called "mantero" perform the faena, a series of daring tricks and maneuvers to entertain the public and avoid being hit by the bull. The lyrics mention several of these "mantero," including Alfredo Ortiz, Tulio Villalobos, Alfonso Puerto, and Leonel Pachale, as well as other characters such as Gabano Venta, Evaristo Sánchez, Antonio Contreras, and María Varilla.

The song captures the excitement and danger of the corraleja, as well as the camaraderie and pride among the participants. The chorus, which repeats "Muuuuuuuu, Muuuuuuuu," mimics the sound of the bull and adds to the sense of spectacle and tension. The song also references the city of Montería, which is known for its corralejas and where the song was presumably popularized.

"El Toro Negro" is an example of cumbia, a rhythm that originated in Colombia's Caribbean coast and is characterized by a fast-paced beat and a distinctive accordion sound. The song is a tribute to one of Colombia's most colorful and controversial traditions and highlights the resilience and creativity of its people.