Señora Chichera
inti illimani Lyrics

The lyrics to Inti Illimani's "Señora Chichera" tell the story of a person seeking chicha, a traditional fermented corn drink popular in many Latin American countries. The singer addresses a "señora chichera," or female vendor of chicha, asking her to sell them "chichita," a diminutive form of the word for chicha. However, if she does not have any chicha, the singer asks for anything else she might have to offer. The chorus of the song is made up of rhythmic, repetitive syllables that evoke the sound of drums and the steady beat of feet as the singer dances and sings in celebration of life.

The song is a celebration of traditional Andean culture, and the chicha is a symbol of that culture. By seeking it out, the singer is yearning to connect with and celebrate their roots. The lyrics also suggest a playful sense of humor, as the singer is willing to settle for "cualquiera cosita," or just about anything, if the vendor does not have any chicha. This suggests a willingness to be flexible and to embrace whatever comes their way, a trait that is often associated with the resilient, joyful spirit of Latin American communities.