The Singles Jukebox

Happy/sad/something else…

[Video]
[7.00]

Al Varela: It’s my duty as a Mexican to report on this one. I find it interesting that the first traditional Mexican song to crossover to the American charts happens to be one that most resembles a country song. With its soft guitar melody and heartbreak-tinged angsty lyrics, Gera MX and Christian Nodal croon over what’s otherwise pretty mellow and bittersweet. I’m just happy this became such an immediate hit. It gives me a familiar feeling of home while being modern and likable enough to work on its own merits. 
[8]

Mark Sinker: The words are aimed at her and they say “I drink to forget you, because I don’t want to forget, and because drink tastes better when I remember” — but this really isn’t the story the gently lush bob and sway of the sound is telling, the spaced mesh and grain of the voices, the way the melody relaxes and curls at phrase end. Because also it’s lovely just to be a bit blitzed of an evening with your happy pals who love you, even with a bruised heart. I know, I know, 12 months plus of solitary lockdown talking there. But it’s true. 
[9]

Thomas Inskeep: This is a tremendous, tremendously sad breakup record that just nails you *right here* (points at heart). I’m not used to ranchera songs being half-rapped and half-sung, but this succeeds, I think in large part because it’s so slow. Hearing Christian Nodal start to sing on the glacially paced, acoustic track isn’t at all surprising, but when Gera MX comes in and starts rapping, it is. They both convey all the emotion they need from just their vocals; whether you know what the lyrics mean or not, you get it. 
[8]

Alfred Soto: Form reflects content: heartache leading the singer back to the bottle might require a ponderous arrangement.
[4]

Juana Giaimo: Gera MX really fits in this norteño ballad. His slow rapping is rather melodic and it also helps that Christian Nodal harmonizes with his verses, joining both parts together. This isn’t my go-to song, but I’m pleasantly surprised by how they made it work so effortlessly.
[6]

Nortey Dowuona: I absolutely love that there’s a little wiggle room for soft, on the way to the function jams like this, and Christian Nodal sounds fantastic. Thank u, Gera.
[7]