The Meaning Behind The Song: Un Poco Loco by Anthony Gonzalez & Gael García Bernal
As a Filmmaker, I can’t help but be captivated by the power of music in movies. One song that has particularly resonated with me is “Un Poco Loco” from the movie Coco. The catchy tune and infectious energy immediately caught my attention and drew me into the story. Today, I want to delve into the meaning behind this song and explore why it has become such a fan-favorite.
“Un Poco Loco” is sung by Miguel, the film’s protagonist, during a competition he enters. The winner of the competition would be granted the opportunity to attend Ernesto de la Cruz’s concert, a dream come true for Miguel. Originally planning to sing “Remember Me,” a popular song in the movie, Miguel then makes a last-minute decision to perform “Un Poco Loco” instead.
The lyrics of the song are simple yet powerful. Miguel asks a series of questions about the color of the sky and where to put his shoes, to which he receives playful and whimsical answers from his loved ones. The chorus exclaims, “You make me un poco loco” (meaning “a little crazy” in English), emphasizing the joy and exhilaration that love can bring.
But what makes this song truly special is the context within the movie. Miguel is on a journey to uncover his family’s musical history and find his own path in the face of opposition. By choosing to sing “Un Poco Loco” instead of the expected choice, Miguel showcases his determination to be true to himself and break free from the constraints of others’ expectations.
The song also carries a deeper meaning when considering its original intent. Director Lee Unkrich revealed on Twitter that “Un Poco Loco” was initially meant to be a song that Hector, a vital character in the movie, wrote for his wife Imelda. This adds another layer of emotional resonance, as the lyrics take on a bittersweet quality, symbolizing the enduring love that transcends time and place.
“Un Poco Loco” serves as a reminder to embrace our passions and embrace the craziness that love can bring. It encourages us to challenge societal norms and expectations, just like Miguel did in the movie. This message of self-discovery and staying true to oneself is one that resonates with audiences of all ages and has made “Un Poco Loco” a beloved song from Coco.
In addition to its meaningful lyrics, the music production of “Un Poco Loco” deserves recognition. Produced by Germaine Franco and written by Germaine Franco and Adrian Molina, the song showcases their talent in crafting catchy tunes that capture the essence of the movie. The collaboration between Anthony Gonzalez and Gael García Bernal, who provide the vocals for Miguel and Hector respectively, brings an infectious energy and authenticity to the song.
“Un Poco Loco” has also inspired numerous covers and remixes, further cementing its place in popular culture. Artists such as Markus Magne Rosså, Alex González, and Lev Koshkarov have put their own unique spin on the song, showcasing the universality and versatility of its appeal.
In conclusion, “Un Poco Loco” is a song that goes beyond its catchy melody and memorable lyrics. It embodies the spirit of Coco and its underlying messages of self-discovery, love, and pursuing our passions against all odds. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or simply appreciate good music, “Un Poco Loco” is a song that can uplift and inspire, reminding us to embrace our inner crazy and live life to the fullest.
