Meaning and Lyrics of EL RITMO QUE NOS UNE – feat. Selección Colombia by Ryan Castro

Ryan Castro’s “EL RITMO QUE NOS UNE” featuring Selección Colombia (the Colombian national soccer team) is a vibrant testament to the unifying power of music and sports. The track is a veritable fiesta, blending elements of reggaeton with the fever pitch excitement of a soccer match, all while celebrating Colombian culture with palpable enthusiasm.

Intro: Ryan Castro

The song kicks off with the signature phrase, “Qué chimba, SOG,” setting the tone for a celebration that’s unabashedly Colombian. “Qué chimba” roughly translates to “how cool” or “how awesome,” and SOG is likely a shout-out to music producer SOG. This succinct intro signals that we’re about to embark on a vibrant auditory journey.

Coro: Ryan Castro

The chorus, punctuated by the repetition of “Mami, prenda la radio, encienda la tele,” underscores the communal experience of watching a soccer match. It’s a call to arms, urging listeners to tune in and tune out distractions because “hoy juega La Sele” (today the national team plays). The command “coja la curva, coja la L, si no está alentando” is a directive to get on board or miss out. The colloquial “coja la L” hints at taking a loss if one isn’t supporting the team, encapsulating the fervor surrounding football in Colombia.

Verso 1: Ryan Castro, Lucho Díaz & Juanfer Quintero

In the first verse, Castro, along with footballers Lucho Díaz and Juanfer Quintero, merges the worlds of soccer and reggaeton. Lines like “El equipo está duro y quiere salir campeón” (The team is strong and wants to become the champion) and “Guarden energía para que canten el gol” (Save your energy to cheer for the goal) illustrate the anticipation and hope tied into every match. The imagery of “la bajo de pecho y la meto de volea” (I chest it down and volley it in) and “después del partido también se pelea” (after the game, there are also fights) reflect the fiery passion that Colombians have for soccer.

The verse continues with vibrant descriptors, like “El pana está trayendo la fría” (The buddy is bringing the cold ones), portraying the typical game-day preparations. The mention of “La costa” brings in regional pride, adding layers to the track’s cultural embrace.

Puente: Ryan Castro

The bridge shifts gears with a dynamic change, urging “SOG, cámbiale el flow, ponelo en rancha,” beckoning SOG to switch up the rhythm, injecting the sound with a fresh, invigorating vibe. The imagery of an “avalancha” (avalanche) in the stands during an exciting match brings to life the chaotic and jubilant atmosphere of a soccer game.

Refrán: Ryan Castro

The repetitive refrán anchors the track, with Castro crooning “Qué rico tú lo baila’, qué rico tú lo mueve’, mi amor.” It’s not just about soccer; it’s also about dance and movement, drawing a parallel between the fluidity of dance and the athletic grace of soccer. The request “Poneme titular, mamacita, que yo soy buen jugador” (Make me a starter, baby, because I’m a good player) wraps in sexual innuendo with sporting prowess.

Interludio: Javier Fernández Franco

Javier Fernández Franco’s interlude serves as a realistic play-by-play, heightening the track’s immersive quality. He paints a vivid picture of the game’s progression, culminating in a triumphant shout of “¡Qué golazo, gol de Colombia!” It’s a brilliant storytelling device that brings listeners directly into the excitement of a live match.

Verso 2: Ryan Castro

Returning for the second verse, Castro further ramps up the energy with “To’ el mundo arriba de la silla” (Everyone up from their seats). The verse seamlessly transitions into a nod to Colombian icon Juanes with “Si Juanes tenía la camisa negra, pues yo la tengo amarilla” (If Juanes had the black shirt, well I have the yellow one), creatively tying in national colors and cultural pride.

Coro: Juanfer Quintero & Ryan Castro

The chorus repeats, reinforcing the song’s central themes of unity and support for the national team. Its repetition mimics that of a chant, suitable for stadiums and community gatherings.

Outro: Javier Fernández Franco

In a stirring outro, Javier Fernández Franco’s words are almost anthemic, stating, “Se levantan los corazones y nos abrazamos en uno solo… Todos los colombianos” (Our hearts rise and we embrace as one… All Colombians). It’s a heartfelt coda that circles back to the song’s title—”EL RITMO QUE NOS UNE” (The Rhythm That Unites Us).

This track is more than a song; it’s a cultural statement. It marries the high-energy world of reggaeton with the nationalistic fervor of soccer, producing a soundscape that’s both thrilling and deeply rooted in Colombian heritage. Through engaging rhythms, evocative lyrics, and clever integrations of cultural touchstones, Ryan Castro and Selección Colombia have engineered an anthem poised to unite listeners in both victory and celebration.