Un Poco Loco (De “Coco”) – Luis Ángel Gómez Jaramillo, Gael García Bernal

“Un Poco Loco,” one of the standout songs from Disney-Pixar’s Coco (2017), is a vibrant and lively track that captures the heart and soul of the film’s central themes. Sung by Luis Ángel Gómez Jaramillo (who voices the character Miguel) and Gael García Bernal (who voices Héctor), this song is not only an essential part of the film’s narrative but also a musical representation of Mexican culture and the emotional journey of the main character, Miguel. The title, which translates to “A Little Crazy” in English, perfectly reflects the playful and adventurous spirit of both the song and the movie.

The Role of Music in Coco and “Un Poco Loco”
Coco is a visually stunning animated film that tells the story of Miguel, a young boy with a passion for music, growing up in a family that has banned it for generations. Despite his family’s disapproval, Miguel dreams of becoming a famous musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz. The film is set during the Mexican holiday Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), and as Miguel embarks on a journey through the Land of the Dead, he learns about the importance of family, memory, and identity. Music plays a pivotal role in Coco, both as a storytelling device and as a symbol of Mexican culture and heritage.

“Un Poco Loco” is a key musical number in the film, performed by Miguel and Héctor as part of a talent competition in the Land of the Dead. The song is lively, upbeat, and full of charm, making it one of the most memorable moments in Coco. It’s a moment where Miguel not only showcases his musical talent but also strengthens his bond with Héctor, who becomes a crucial figure in Miguel’s journey.

The Music: A Fusion of Traditional Mexican Sounds
The music of “Un Poco Loco” is an infectious blend of traditional Mexican musical styles. The song incorporates elements of mariachi, a genre that is deeply rooted in Mexican culture, characterized by its use of instruments like the guitar, trumpet, and violin. The lively rhythm and playful melody are quintessentially mariachi, creating a sense of joy and celebration. The song’s vibrant arrangement is a testament to the film’s dedication to accurately and respectfully representing Mexican musical traditions.

The instrumentation in “Un Poco Loco” is simple yet effective. The strumming of the guitar and the plucking of the strings give the song its rhythmic drive, while the horns add a layer of festivity and excitement. The playful tempo and upbeat rhythm make it impossible not to tap your feet or smile while listening to the song. It’s a tune that’s designed to make you want to dance, and it perfectly captures the energy and spirit of the scene in which it’s performed.

The Lyrics: A Playful Dance of Words
The lyrics of “Un Poco Loco,” written by Germaine Franco and Adrian Molina, are whimsical and fun, reflecting the playful relationship between Miguel and Héctor. The song is filled with clever wordplay and expressions of love and admiration, with Miguel singing about how the person he admires (which in the context of the movie could represent his passion for music and self-expression) makes him feel “a little crazy.” The lyrics are lighthearted, yet they resonate with a deeper emotional connection that Miguel feels toward his music and his journey of self-discovery.

Lines like “You make me un poco loco, un poquititito loco” (You make me a little crazy, just a little bit crazy) are delivered with a sense of joyful abandon, encapsulating the feeling of being so caught up in something that it throws you off balance—in Miguel’s case, his love for music. The lyrics also play with contradictions and opposites, such as “The way you keep me guessing, I’m nodding and I’m yes-ing,” which add to the playful, almost flirtatious nature of the song.

This back-and-forth dynamic between Miguel and Héctor during their performance not only adds to the entertainment value of the song but also highlights the bond they are forming as they navigate the challenges of the Land of the Dead together.

Cultural Significance and Representation
One of the most remarkable aspects of Coco and its music is how it celebrates and honors Mexican culture, and “Un Poco Loco” is no exception. The song’s use of traditional Mexican music styles and instruments, combined with its Spanish-language lyrics, provides an authentic representation of the country’s rich musical heritage. In a world where mainstream media often overlooks or misrepresents cultures, Coco stands out for its attention to detail and cultural sensitivity.

For many viewers, particularly those of Mexican or Latin American descent, “Un Poco Loco” and the other songs in Coco offer a sense of pride and joy in seeing their culture represented on a global stage. The film, with its vibrant depictions of Día de los Muertos, its colorful animation, and its heartfelt story, was praised for not only entertaining audiences but also for educating them about Mexican traditions and values.

The Emotional Core of “Un Poco Loco”
While “Un Poco Loco” is undoubtedly a fun and upbeat song, it also carries emotional weight within the context of Coco. At this point in the film, Miguel is beginning to understand the complexities of family, tradition, and identity. He’s torn between his love for music and his family’s long-standing ban on it, and this internal struggle plays out through his musical performances. “Un Poco Loco” is Miguel’s way of expressing his passion for music in a world where he feels most alive, even though it may seem “a little crazy” to those around him.

At the same time, the song strengthens the bond between Miguel and Héctor. As they perform together, they form a connection that goes beyond music—one that will ultimately lead to the discovery of a long-buried family secret. In this way, “Un Poco Loco” is not just a fun musical number but a turning point in Miguel’s journey toward understanding the importance of family and remembering those who came before him.

Conclusion: A Song That Captures the Spirit of Coco
“Un Poco Loco” is more than just a catchy song from an animated film. It’s a celebration of Mexican culture, a testament to the power of music, and an integral part of Miguel’s emotional journey in Coco. With its lively mariachi-inspired music, playful lyrics, and heartfelt performances by Luis Ángel Gómez Jaramillo and Gael García Bernal, the song captures the essence of joy, family, and self-expression. As one of the most memorable songs from Coco, “Un Poco Loco” continues to resonate with audiences around the world, reminding us all of the importance of embracing our passions, even if they make us feel a little crazy.