Tusa Lyrics in English by Karol G, Nicki Minaj
Tusa is a popular Colombian slang term that is the heart and soul of this hit song.
It describes a specific kind of emotional state after a breakup: a mix of heartbreak, spite, and an inability to get over someone. In the song, Karol G sings about going out with her friend 'pa' matar la tusa' (to kill the 'tusa'), trying to cure this feeling with a party. Learning this word is key to understanding the culture behind modern Latin music.
Ever had a song that totally ruins your night out? That's what "Tusa" is all about. The title is a word from Colombia, where Karol G is from, for that special kind of heartbreak and sadness you feel after a breakup. The song tells the story of a woman who goes out with her friend "dizque pa' matar la tusa" [supposedly to kill the heartbreak]. She's acting tough because "un hombre le pagó mal" [a man treated her badly], and she's decided she's done being the good girl. Now, "es ella quien los usa" [she's the one who uses them].
But here's the thing: it's mostly an act. She says she won't cry over another man, but then that one song comes on. Suddenly, "Le da una depresión tonta" [she gets a silly depression] and starts calling her ex, who sends her straight to voicemail. Nicki Minaj jumps in with a fire verse in English, telling the ex he's an "epic fail" and a "big toddler" now that she's moved on. She makes it clear she's doing better than ever: "'Cause I know I'm the baddest bitch you ever really met". The song perfectly shows that feeling of trying to be strong and have fun, but still being secretly hung up on someone.
