The halls are decked, the tamales made, but what will be played as friends and family walk in? TCRN has put together a brief list of popular Christmas songs in Latin America for your listening pleasure. Some are bound to be familiar, others — we hope — will become new additions to your annual holiday traditions!
“Farolito” — Gloria Estefan
This rhythmic cancion naivdeña by Gloria Estefan sings of a “heart full of hope on the Good Night.” It’s a song that’s bound to spur some festive dancing, yet remains true to the original meaning of the holiday.
“Ven a mi casa esta Navidad” — Luis Aguilé
Take a trip back in time with Luis Aguilé’s classic, “Ven a mi casa esta Navidad.” The lyrics invite in those who for one reason or another cannot be with the ones they love. “Come to my house this Christmas,” calls Aguilé’s charming voice.
“Los peces en el rio”
For those of us from northern grounds, the image of fish swimming in the river is not one that will likely summon Christmas nostalgia. Nevertheless, “Los peces en el rio” is a standard Spanish carol that tells how even the fish in the river are excited to see the birth of Baby Jesus.
“Los dientes de Pánfilo”
Did you know that the Spanish-speaking world has their own group of cheerful singing rodents? Known as Las Ardillitas — The Chipmunks’ apparent Latin cousins — this group is responsible for popularizing a song written by Lalo Guerrero, “Los dientes de Pánfilo.” See if you recognize this familiar tune.
“Rodolfo el Reno” — Thalía
Multilingual pop singer Thalia put her own vibrant touch on an old classic: “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” Complete with a children’s chorus and intermittent scat transitions, this rendition is sure to bring a smile to your face!
“Mi burrito sabanero”
No, this last song has nothing to do with delicious wraps made with flour tortillas. Instead, the singer talks about his little donkey and their journey towards Bethlehem. Will you sing along?
Read the original article by Sandra Ortiz-Juarez on ¿Qué Más?.
