"Estaba el Señor Don Gato" is a playful Spanish folk tune that tells the misadventures of the dashing Don Gato. Perched proudly on his rooftop throne, the lovestruck cat receives a letter asking whether he would like to marry a lovely brown-furred kitty. Overjoyed, he lets out a triumphant “Marrama-miau, miau, miau”… only to tumble off the roof in his excitement. The poor feline breaks seven ribs, his backbone, and even his tail, turning what should have been a purr-fect day into a comic catastrophe.
Yet Don Gato’s story is far from over. As friends solemnly carry him down Fish Street toward burial, the irresistible aroma of fresh sardines drifts by, instantly reviving our hero. With a vigorous “Marrama-miau,” he springs back to life, proving the Spanish saying “Siete vidas tiene un gato” — a cat has seven lives. Packed with catchy repetition, onomatopoeic cat calls, and a humorous twist on romance, the song reminds listeners that hope, love, and perhaps a good plate of sardines can bring anyone back to their feet (or paws) in no time.