Cielito Lindo – English Lyrics

• By: Pedro Infante, Plácido Domingo

Lyrics & Translation

Delve into the vibrant heart of Mexican culture with "Cielito Lindo," a timeless folk song that serves as an unofficial anthem for Mexicans worldwide. Through its endearing lyrics and famous refrain, "Canta y no llores" (Sing and don't cry), you can learn not only beautiful Spanish expressions of affection and optimism but also grasp the enduring spirit of hope and unity that defines Mexican heritage. Its simple yet powerful message of finding joy amidst adversity makes it a special piece for language learners and cultural enthusiasts alike.

[English]

De la sierra morena

Cielito lindo vienen bajando

Un par de ojitos negros

Cielito lindo, de contrabando

De la sierra morena

Cielito lindo vienen bajando

Un par de ojitos negros

Cielito lindo, de contrabando

Ay, ay, ay, ay, canta y no llores

Porque cantando se alegran

Cielito lindo, los corazones

Ay, ay, ay, ay, canta y no llores

Porque cantando se alegran

Cielito lindo, los corazones

...

Ese lunar que tienes

Cielito lindo, junto a la boca

No se lo des a nadie

Cielito lindo, que a mí me toca

Ese lunar que tienes

Cielito lindo, junto a la boca

No se lo des a nadie

Cielito lindo, que a mí me toca

Ay, ay, ay, ay, canta y no llores

Porque cantando se alegran

Cielito lindo, los corazones

Ay, ay, ay, ay, canta y no llores

Porque cantando se alegran

Cielito lindo, los corazones

...

Siempre que te enamores

Mira primero, mira primero

Donde pones los ojos

Cielito lindo, no llores luego

Ay, ay, ay, ay, canta y no llores

Porque cantando se alegran

Cielito lindo los corazones

...

Key Grammar Structures

• Vienen bajando

  ➔ Present continuous tense with 'venir' + gerund

  ➔ Shows an ongoing action happening now

• Canta y no llores

  ➔ Imperative form for commands and suggestions

  ➔ Expresses a command or encouragement to sing and not cry

• Porque cantando se alegran

  ➔ Use of reflexive passive with 'se' + verb in present tense

  ➔ Expresses that people are happy because of singing or dancing

• Mira primero, mira primero

  ➔ Imperative form with repetition for emphasis

  ➔ Commands someone to look or pay attention first

• Que a mí me toca

  ➔ Use of 'tocar' in the form 'me toca' to express obligation or duty

  ➔ Indicates that it is one's turn or one's responsibility