Imagine a heroic story where the medal-winning soldier suddenly refuses the fanfare. “Coronel” paints exactly that scene. The song follows a colonel who, at the climax of battle, hugs his comrades, climbs over the trenches… and vanishes. Instead of chasing glory, he replaces bullets with a red carnation, slips away to a lonely bar, and confesses his heartbreak to a stranger. Victory tastes bitter when you have counted every tear and goodbye on the front lines.
Through powerful imagery, La Oreja de Van Gogh questions whether honor and triumph are worth more than the people lost along the way. The chorus is a cry of conscience: if we celebrate wars yet ignore the faces soaked in tears, we have learned nothing. “Coronel” is both an anti-war ballad and a reminder that true bravery may be choosing compassion over conquest.
La Oreja de Van Gogh is a celebrated pop rock band originating from San Sebastián, Spain, known for their heartfelt lyrics revolving around love, friendship, and relationships. Since their formation in 1996, the group has released nine studio albums, including hits like "Puedes Contar Conmigo," "Rosas," and "Muñeca de Trapo," captivating audiences across Spain and Latin America.
The band initially rose to fame with lead vocalist Amaia Montero, whose voice helped propel albums like El viaje de Copperpot to diamond status. Following Amaia's departure in 2007, Leire Martínez took over as lead singer, continuing the band's legacy with successful albums and tours until 2024. La Oreja de Van Gogh's timeless melodies and poetic storytelling have earned them numerous awards, securing their place as icons of Spanish pop music.