Cielito Lindo Lyrics in English by Pedro Infante

contrabando literally means "contraband" or "smuggled goods". It's a word you'd normally associate with something illicit or secret, which makes its use in this classic folk song so surprising and poetic.

Here, the singer describes a pair of beautiful dark eyes coming down from the mountains "de contrabando" (like contraband). This metaphor suggests the eyes are so precious and captivating that they must have been brought in secretly, adding a layer of playful mischief and intrigue to this timeless declaration of love.

“Cielito Lindo” is one of Mexico’s most beloved songs, and it feels like a collection of sweet, romantic thoughts mixed with some solid life advice. The singer starts by describing a beautiful sight: from the Sierra Morena mountains, “un par de ojitos negros... de contrabando” (a pair of black eyes... smuggled) are coming down. It’s a playful way to say someone with beautiful eyes has captured his attention, as if they were precious, stolen goods.

The song's famous chorus gives direct, simple advice for hard times: “Ay, ay, ay, ay, canta y no llores” (Ay, ay, ay, ay, sing and don't cry). Why? “Porque cantando se alegran... los corazones” (Because singing makes hearts happy). The verses continue this mix of romance and wisdom. One line gets a bit possessive and flirty, telling his love not to give the mole by her mouth to anyone else because “que a mí me toca” (it belongs to me). Another verse warns you to be careful when you fall in love, so you don't end up crying later. It’s a song full of affection and encouragement.