Rímel literally translates to "mascara". It's an everyday word, but its use in the song's title and chorus gives it a deeper, more evocative meaning.
In the lyrics, Quevedo sings, "si él lo único que hace es que se te corra el rímel" (if all he does is make your mascara run). This phrase cleverly implies that the other person only brings her to tears, highlighting a contrast with the singer who promises to make her sing with joy. It's a relatable image that captures emotional turmoil and the desire for a better connection.
Quevedo's "Rimmel" tells the story of a complicated, secret relationship. Our singer meets a girl at a club who's already in a relationship, but her boyfriend doesn't appreciate her. She tells Quevedo her heart isn't "en oferta" [on offer], but she's clearly drawn to him.
He questions her intentions, wondering if she's with him for his money or fame, especially after she starts listening to his music and upgrading her style from "ropa barata por to' Christian Dior" [cheap clothes for all Christian Dior]. Despite her initial reluctance, she starts asking him for a kiss before he leaves, and when she sees him, she "no sabe despedirse" [doesn't know how to say goodbye]. He asks her, "dime, si él lo único que hace es que se te corra el rímel?" [tell me, if all he does is make your mascara run?], implying her current boyfriend only makes her cry, while Quevedo makes her "cantar en la cama sin que afines" [sing in bed without tuning]. It's a fun, cheeky look at a relationship that's all about secret meetings and blurred lines.