De Paisano A Paisano Lyrics in English by Los Tigres Del Norte

Paisano literally translates to "fellow countryman," but it carries a much deeper meaning of camaraderie and solidarity. It's a special term used between people from the same country or region, especially when they are living abroad.

In this powerful anthem by Los Tigres Del Norte, the phrase "de paisano a paisano" (from one countryman to another) is a rallying cry for unity. It highlights the shared struggles and mutual support within the immigrant community, making it a truly heartfelt and culturally significant word to learn.

Los Tigres Del Norte don't hold back in this song. It's a direct message from one countryman to another—"De paisano a paisano" [From countryman to countryman]—about the immigrant experience. The singer describes crossing borders like "el águila en vuelo" [the eagle in flight] to give his children a better future. But his heart remains in his homeland. He makes a powerful demand: if he dies, he must be taken back home wrapped in his flag, because he would "muero dos veces / Si me entierran acá" [die twice if they bury me here].

Then the song gets even more direct. The singer stops to ask the boss, the "patrón", a few questions. Who is doing all the hard work? "Quien recoge la cosecha / Quien trabaja en la limpieza / Hoteles y restaurants" [Who picks the harvest / Who works cleaning / Hotels and restaurants]. He points out the injustice of working so hard while the boss schemes in his mansion, and how sometimes they aren't even paid. The ultimate wish is for a world without borders, where everyone can live "En una misma nación" [In one single nation].