TQG – KAROL G and Shakira
The song “TQG,” a collaboration between two of Latin music’s most prominent female artists, KAROL G and Shakira, is more than just a musical release; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Released in early 2023, the track quickly garnered massive attention, not only for its catchy rhythm and compelling lyrics but also for the sheer star power of its creators. Both KAROL G and Shakira are known for their unique styles and powerful voices, making “TQG” a highly anticipated collaboration that did not disappoint. The official music video, which accompanies the song, further amplifies the impact of the track, combining visually stunning imagery with a narrative that resonates deeply with fans.
The Collaboration: KAROL G and Shakira
KAROL G and Shakira are both trailblazers in their own right, having carved out successful careers in a male-dominated industry. KAROL G, born Carolina Giraldo Navarro in Medellín, Colombia, has risen to prominence with her blend of reggaeton, trap, and Latin pop. Her music often explores themes of empowerment, love, and independence, making her a voice for a new generation of Latin music fans.
Shakira, on the other hand, is a global superstar with a career spanning over three decades. Hailing from Barranquilla, Colombia, she has transcended the Latin music scene to become a household name worldwide. Known for her unique voice, belly dancing, and genre-blending music that incorporates rock, pop, and traditional Latin sounds, Shakira has been a pioneer in bringing Latin music to international audiences.
When it was announced that these two Colombian powerhouses would be collaborating on a track, the excitement was palpable. “TQG,” which stands for “Te Quedó Grande,” is a song that merges their distinct styles, blending reggaeton beats with pop sensibilities, creating a sound that is both fresh and familiar.
The Song: A Tale of Empowerment and Liberation
“TQG” is a song that speaks to themes of empowerment, self-worth, and moving on from a toxic relationship. The lyrics, sung in Spanish, convey a sense of liberation from the past and a celebration of personal strength. The title, “Te Quedó Grande,” translates to “It Was Too Much for You,” a phrase that is both a declaration of independence and a recognition of self-value.
The song begins with a strong beat, immediately setting the tone for what is to come. Shakira’s signature voice enters first, delivering the opening verse with a mix of vulnerability and defiance. KAROL G follows, adding her own flair to the track, and the two voices blend seamlessly in the chorus. The lyrics reflect the shared experience of overcoming a difficult relationship, with lines like “Ya no soy la misma, me volví mejor” (“I’m not the same, I became better”) highlighting the transformation that comes with letting go.
Musically, “TQG” is a fusion of reggaeton rhythms with pop elements, creating a track that is both danceable and emotionally resonant. The production is polished, with a beat that drives the song forward and a melody that lingers long after the track has ended. The song’s structure allows both artists to shine, with each verse showcasing their individual strengths before coming together in a powerful chorus.
The Official Video: A Visual Spectacle
The official music video for “TQG” is as impactful as the song itself. Directed by Pedro Artola, the video is a visual feast, combining stunning cinematography with a narrative that complements the themes of the song. Set against a variety of dramatic backdrops, including a crumbling cityscape and a surreal, otherworldly landscape, the video uses symbolism and imagery to enhance the message of the song.
The video opens with Shakira standing atop a building, looking out over a city that appears to be falling apart. This image sets the tone for the rest of the video, symbolizing the end of something old and the beginning of something new. As the video progresses, both Shakira and KAROL G are shown in various scenes that depict their journey from heartbreak to empowerment.
One of the most striking aspects of the video is the way it uses visual metaphors to convey the song’s message. In one scene, Shakira walks through a room filled with shattered mirrors, each reflecting a different version of herself. This symbolizes the process of breaking free from past identities and embracing a new self. Similarly, KAROL G is shown emerging from a pool of water, representing rebirth and renewal.
The video also makes use of bold colors and dramatic lighting to create a mood that is both intense and celebratory. The choreography is minimal but powerful, with both artists exuding confidence and strength in their movements. The visual effects, combined with the dynamic camera work, create a sense of movement and energy that matches the rhythm of the song.
Impact and Reception
Since its release, “TQG” has received widespread acclaim from both fans and critics. The song’s empowering message, combined with the star power of KAROL G and Shakira, has made it a standout track in both artists’ discographies. The music video, with its stunning visuals and symbolic imagery, has also been praised for its creativity and artistic vision.
Commercially, “TQG” has been a success, charting high in multiple countries and becoming a favorite on streaming platforms. The collaboration has also sparked discussions about the importance of female representation in the Latin music industry, with many seeing the partnership as a celebration of female empowerment and solidarity.
Conclusion
“TQG” by KAROL G and Shakira is more than just a song—it’s a statement. Through its powerful lyrics, infectious beat, and stunning visuals, the track encapsulates the strength and resilience of women who refuse to be defined by their past. The collaboration between these two icons of Latin music has resulted in a track that is both musically and culturally significant, resonating with listeners around the world and further solidifying KAROL G and Shakira’s status as leaders in the industry.
Letra:
La que te dijo que un vacío se llena con otra persona te miente
Es como tapar una herida con maquillaje, no se ve, pero se siente
Te fuiste diciendo que me superaste (Ey) y te conseguiste nueva novia (Novia)
Lo que ella no sabe es que tú todavía me está’ viendo toa’ la historia’ (No; papi)
Bebé, ¿qué fue?, ¿no pues que muy tragaíto’? (-íto’)
¿Qué haces buscándome el la’o? Si sabes que yo errores no repito (Ey, papi)
Dile a tu nueva bebé que por hombres no compito
Que deje de estar tirando, que al meno’ yo te tenía bonito
Verte con la nueva me dolió (Dolió)
Pero ya estoy puesta pa’ lo mío
Lo que vivimos se me olvidó
Y eso e’ lo que te tiene ofendido
Que hasta la vida me mejoró
Por acá ya no eres bienvenido
Vi lo que tu novia me tiró
Eso no da ni rabia, yo me río, yo me río
No tengo tiempo pa’ lo que no aporte, ya cambié mi norte
Haciendo dinero como deporte (Ah)
Llenando la cuenta, los show’, el parking y el pasaporte (Ey)
‘Toy más dura dicen los reporte’
Ahora tú quieres volver, se te nota, mmm, sí
‘Pérame ahí, que yo soy idiota (Ah)
Se te olvidó que estoy en otra
Y que te quedó grande La Bichota
Bebé, ¿qué fue? (Fue), ¿no pues que muy tragaíto’? (Ah)
¿Qué haces buscándome el la’o? (Ey) Si sabes que yo errores no repito
Dile a tu nueva bebé que por hombres no compito
Que deje de estar tirando, que al menos yo te tenía bonito (Shakira, Shakira)
Tú te fuiste y yo me puse triple M
Más buena, más dura, más leve
Volver contigo never, tú eres la mala suerte
Porque ahora la’ bendicione’ me llueven
Y quiere’ volver, ya lo suponía
Dándole like a la foto mía
Tú buscando por fuera la comida
Yo diciendo que era monotonía
Y ahora quieres volver, ya lo suponía
Dándole like a la foto mía (A la mía)
Te ves feliz con tu nueva vida
Pero si ella supiera que me busca’ todavía
Bebé, ¿qué fue? (Fue), ¿no pues que muy tragaíto’? (Ah)
¿Qué haces buscándome el la’o? (Ey) Si sabes que yo errores no repito
Dile a tu nueva bebé que por hombres no compito (Mueve el culito)
Que no tiene buena mano, y al menos yo te tenía bonito
O-O-Ovy On The Drums
Mi amor, es que usted se alejó mucho
Y yo de lejos ya no veo, bebé
TQM pero TQG, jajaja
Barranquilla, Medallo