Flamenco
Georges Moustaki Lyrics

Georges Moustaki's song, "Flamenco," expresses the longing for freedom and a celebration of it when it is finally obtained. The lyrics begin with questions that echo the desire for freedom, wondering who will be the first to sing the chords of liberty and who will sing the flamenco when Spain is free from Franco's rule. The song imagines what it will be like when freedom is achieved, envisioning a day of celebration filled with music and dance. The verses continue with calls to action, including the making of a new guitar and the clearing of space for dancing. The song's chorus repeats that the winds of history have turned near the Mediterranean, signaling a change in the political landscape and a hope for freedom.

The song's various references to cultural giants of Spain add depth to its themes. The mention of Picasso, Casals, and Federico (likely Federico García Lorca, the poet and dramatist) provides a sense of Spain's rich artistic history and the importance of cultural continuity. The song also emphasizes the role of music in the struggle for freedom, particularly the flamenco, which has long been associated with Spanish Gitano (Gypsy) communities and their experiences of oppression.

Overall, "Flamenco" is a poetic call to action that emphasizes the importance of cultural expression and the celebration of freedom. Through its imagery and references, the song speaks to the longing for liberation from oppressive regimes and the joy that can come from achieving it.