The Meaning Behind The Song: Santeria by Sublime
Sublime’s track “Santeria” is one of the band’s most recognized and beloved songs. It’s not only a catchy tune, but its meaning has captured the hearts of many listeners and left a lasting legacy. While some people might have danced along to its melody before, not everyone is aware of the true meaning behind the song and where its origins lie.
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If you’re one of those people, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the meaning and significance of “Santeria.”
The Origins of the Song
The band’s lead vocalist, Bradley Nowell, wrote “Santeria.” It’s been said that he was inspired to write the song by a friend of his girlfriend’s who practiced Santeria, a religion with Afro-Cuban roots that worships a pantheon of deities known as orishas.
According to Sublime band member Eric Wilson, Nowell first heard about the religion when his girlfriend at the time, Troy Holmes, traveled to Nicaragua and met some people who practiced Santeria.
In an interview with Vice, Wilson said, “[Nowell] saw how it had affected her life and started reading a little bit about it. He was fascinated… Being a songwriter, he’d write about what he learned about.”
In the end, “Santeria” was born from Nowell’s interest in Santeria as a religion and a way of life.
The Lyrics
The lyrics to “Santeria” tell a story about a man whose girlfriend was stolen from him by someone he thought was his friend. The man threatens to kill the other guy if he doesn’t get his girlfriend back, but realizes that he can’t do it and turns to prayer instead. There are several references to Santeria throughout the song, such as in the chorus:
“I don’t practice Santeria, I ain’t got no crystal ball
Well, I had a million dollars but I’d, I’d spend it all
If I could find that Heina and that Sancho that she’s found
Well, I’d pop a cap in Sancho and I’d slap her down”
Many listeners have interpreted the chorus as a rejection of Santeria, but that’s not the case. The song is about someone who is not part of the culture but is vaguely aware of it. The lyrics are simply meant to convey the protagonist’s frustration and sense of helplessness.
The Significance of the Song
Despite its seemingly simple story, “Santeria” contains themes that resonate with people all over the world. The song speaks to the pain and betrayal that can come from romantic relationships, and how these feelings can sometimes lead to violent or harmful reactions.
Many people also appreciate the incorporation of Santeria into the song’s lyrics, as it highlights the importance of exploring different cultures and beliefs. It’s often said that music is a universal language, and “Santeria” is a great example of this.
The Impact on Sublime’s Career
While Sublime was already gaining popularity before “Santeria,” the song’s success definitely helped to propel the band into the mainstream. “Santeria” charted in the top 10 on the US Alternative chart and received heavy radio airplay.
Sadly, the success of “Santeria” came after Nowell’s death in 1996. He had passed away only two months prior to the song’s release. The success of the track led to the remaining band members being able to continue with their music careers, and it helped to cement Sublime as an iconic band in American music history.
The Legacy of the Song
Twenty-five years after its initial release, “Santeria” continues to be a beloved song among music lovers. It’s often covered by up-and-coming artists and has been featured in numerous films and TV shows over the years.
In addition to its lasting impact on the music industry, “Santeria” also serves as a reminder of the talent of Bradley Nowell, whose life ended tragically at the young age of 28. The song is a testament to his songwriting skills and his ability to connect with people.
Conclusion
“Santeria” is a timeless song with a heartfelt message. While it may have been born out of Brad Nowell’s interest in Santeria, its universal themes of love, loss, and heartbreak speak to people all over the world. Its legacy continues to shine, making it one of the most iconic songs in Sublime’s repertoire and a cultural touchstone for generations to come.
