Contrabando
Rubén Blades & Roberto Delgado & Orquesta Lyrics

The song "Contrabando" by Rubén Blades Roberto Delgado & Orquesta tells the story of a boat travelling on the muddy Orinoco river, with an indigenous person at the oar transporting contraband goods. The lyrics depict the lush environment of the jungle, with the monkey's call, the alligator watching from the shore, and the indigenous person rowing, marveling at the wonders of the land. It paints a picture of a hidden and secret journey through an exotic and captivating landscape.

The "Camino Verde" (Green Road) mentioned in the song represents a metaphorical path or journey in life. It is described as wide as the sea, implying vast opportunities and challenges. The lyrics suggest that those who do not know how to navigate this path will get lost and perish. It speaks to the importance of seeking and searching for truth and purpose, because those who do not actively seek will ultimately die without finding fulfillment.

The lyrics also list the various contraband goods being transported on the boat. From imported beer, French panties, American Marlboro cigarettes to Japanese radios and Mentholatum and Chingongo products, the song highlights the illicit nature of the goods being smuggled. These items represent material desires and the underground economy that exists outside the confines of legal trade and commerce.

Towards the end of the song, other elements of the story unfold. Guerrillas, the priest, the mayor, and the townspeople become involved, suggesting a level of corruption or complicity in the smuggling operation. As the boat departs at the end of the day, tangled in the jungle, the lyrics describe the enchanting chant that remains. It leaves a lingering sense of mystery and echoes the allure of the forbidden and hidden aspects of life.

Overall, the song "Contrabando" portrays a vivid and poetic narrative of a secret journey through the Orinoco river, exploring themes of adventure, illicit activities, and the search for truth on the metaphorical "Camino Verde." It captures the essence of the human experience, reminding listeners of the dangers, temptations, and allure that exist in the depths of their own journeys in life.