By Mike Sain't Louis ·
Sí, soy una puta: the insult turned into a flag
Some words get thrown in your face from the school playground on. «Sí, soy una puta» (Yes, I'm a Slut) takes one of the most worn-out ones and returns it to sender with a smile and without lowering its gaze.
What matters most to me in the title is the first word. That «sí» sounds calm, with no tone of confession or apology, from someone who's heard the insult so many times they've decided to keep it and add glitter. The song isn't looking for sympathy and doesn't ask to be understood. If someone is scandalised, that's part of the game.
For me it's about something very specific: what other people repeat without thinking. That word is used to control, to shame, to brand whoever lives their desire freely, especially if you're gay or a woman. Turning it around with humour is the most GAYFOLK way I know of drawing out the poison. With style and with very well-mannered spite.
The cover makes it clear at first glance. No dark alley: a ranch in full sun, a red barn, a windmill and a wooden fence. Him in an open denim shirt, aviator glasses and a huge belt buckle; her in a knotted check shirt and shorts. It looks like the sleeve of a petrol-station country album, and that mix of western and cheek suits it wonderfully. The title, in yellow and red fairground-poster letters, completes the joke.
I dedicate it to anyone who's ever felt judged for who they sleep with, how often or how. And also to whoever does the judging, so they listen for a while and take a look in the mirror.
The best moment? Before going out partying, lipstick in hand. Or right after someone hits you with a comment you never asked for, to answer without opening your mouth.