Banquillo literally translates to "bench," but in this song, it takes on a much more dramatic and metaphorical meaning. It refers to the "defendant's bench" in a courtroom.
The singer uses this imagery to express feeling accused and judged in his relationship, waiting for his turn to defend himself. This unique use of a common word in a legal context makes it particularly engaging and memorable.
El Ciego is built as a trial, and the singer is the defendant. He puts himself «Sentado en el banquillo de los acusados» (sitting in the dock), addresses the room as «Señoras y señores» (ladies and gentlemen), and pleads to a charge he does not dispute: he had her «Teniéndote de frente» (right there in front of me) and did not see her. «Cómo pude ser tan ciego para no reconocerte» (how could I be so blind I didn't recognise you) is the line the rest of the song keeps returning to.
The excuses get specific. He is always wrong and always late, and the courage is a costume: «Vestido de valiente cuando yo soy un cobarde» (dressed as a brave man when I'm a coward). He counts the loss in nights — «Me quedan tantas lunas llenas hoy vacías» (so many full moons are left to me, empty now). The chorus asks for the only sentence he wants, «Vuelve a mí» (come back to me), and the line before it leaves a question the song never answers: «Y qué hace un ciego cuando de repente ve» (and what does a blind man do when he suddenly sees).
Cali & El Dandee is a dynamic Colombian Latin pop and urbano duo formed by brothers Alejandro Rengifo (Cali) and Mauricio Rengifo (Dandee). Originating from Cali, Colombia, they began their musical journey in 2008 and quickly rose to prominence with hits like "Yo Te Esperaré" and "Por Fin Te Encontré," collectively amassing over a billion views on YouTube.
Apart from his role as a singer, Dandee has also made a name for himself as a producer, notably co-producing Luis Fonsi's global hit "Despacito." Signed to Universal Music Spain, the brothers have released multiple albums including their debut 3 A.M. and their latest, Malibu. Known for their infectious melodies and heartfelt lyrics, Cali & El Dandee continue to be influential figures in Latin music, collaborating with top artists and earning numerous awards and certifications.