Oye Bien La Clave
Francisco Céspedes Lyrics

The lyrics of Francisco Céspedes's song Oye Bien La Clave are about the importance of paying attention to the clave, a key rhythm used in many Afro-Cuban and Latin American musical genres, including salsa, mambo, and rumba. The clave, which is traditionally played on two wooden sticks, serves as a guide for dancers and musicians, and it is essential for maintaining the groove and the timing of the music. In the song, the clave is personified as a key that unlocks the rhythm, and the singer urges the listeners to listen carefully to it if they want to dance well and keep the beat. The verses also describe a couple who dance a pasillo, a romantic dance style from Colombia, and who follow the clave's instructions to move smoothly and gracefully. The chorus repeats the phrase "Oye bien la clave" (Listen closely to the clave) as a reminder of the song's message.

The song's lyrics are simple and repetitive, but they convey a powerful message about the relationship between music and dance, and the importance of paying attention to the underlying rhythms and structures of a song. The use of the clave as a metaphor for musical coherence and unity is also significant, as it highlights the role of Afro-Cuban and Afro-Latin rhythms in shaping the development of popular music in the Americas. Overall, Oye Bien La Clave is a catchy and upbeat song that celebrates the joy and vitality of Latin American music and dance, while also acknowledging the technical skills and knowledge required to master them.