Remember “El Watusi?” From 1961? Ray Barretto?
It was fun and silly and sweet and sexy, and was sung in Spanish, one of several non-English songs that we Boomers made into hits starting early on with “Nel Blu Del Pinto Del Blue” (Volare), “Dominique,” “Sukiyaki,” “Eres Tu,” and “lo mucho que te quiero.”
“Despasito,” which means “a little slower,” is almost #1 on Top 40 radio, and it’s mostly Spanish– sung by American-born to Puerto Rican parents Luis Fonsi & San Juan native Daddy Yankee, and “featuring” Justin Bieber, who sings his part in English.
The melody, the hook and the and steamy lyrics are connecting with the pubic in a big way. “Despasito,” like “El Watusi,” is about the thrill –the frisson –of an electrically charged mutual sexual attraction –this time the target isn’t Boomers, rather, the appeal is to 21st century Millennials. In 1961 the USA was basking in post WWII prosperity, vs. today’s global, digital, urbanized multi-ethnic world. Different generations have different music.
There are two versions of “Despacito.” The original youtube clip has OVER 2 BILLION VIEWS!
Both “El Watusi” and “Despacito” radiate a sexual sizzle that sounds good, feels good, and is just what the Doctor ordered –no politics or taking sides, just a hot night, a hot babe and a hot band.
In other words, fun.