Juanes has released the music video for one of the most political songs on his new album. The Colombian icon teamed up with Mabiland for the unsettling yet powerful music video for “Canción Desaparecida,” which dropped today (May 31).
On his latest album Vida Cotidiana, Juanes opened up about his personal life while continuing to shed light on political issues in his native Colombia. In the striking “Canción Desaparecida,” he was joined by Afro-Colombian rapper Mabiland. Both artists sang about the alarming rate of people who have experienced forced disappearances.
“It’s a social song that talks about a very sad reality of our country,” Juanes told Remezcla in an interview earlier this month. “It was amazing to work with her. She brought to the song so much power and so much truth, so I really feel happy. I hope the whole world gets to know Mabi.”
Juanes brings that sad reality to the surface in the music video for “Canción Desaparecida.” While walking through the Colombian countryside, he comes across Mabiland, who appears to be shot dead. She briefly comes back to life to deliver her fiery guest verse. As a carriage rolls away with Mabiland’s body, Juanes discovers himself to be shot as well.
At the end of the “Canción Desaparecida,” Juanes included facts and data about the forced disappearance of people in Colombia. Between 1985 and 2016, over 121,000 people were reported missing. The International Criminal Court considers forced disappearance to be a crime against humanity. In Colombia, it became a punishable crime in the year 2000.
This summer, Juanes will perform in New York City’s Central Park as part of the Latin Alternative Music Conference. The concert will take place on July 12. Last year, he featured on Mabiland’s EP Torque, Vol. 1. In the song “El Parcero,” Juanes showered Mabiland’s artistry with his praises.
Check out the music video for “Canción Desaparecida” below.