Natalia Lafourcade - Hasta la Raíz

Music Appreciation

Natalia Lafourcade’s song “Hasta la Raíz” marks a profound return to her Mexican heritage and identity. Co-written with Leonel García, the song draws on her personal journey and cultural roots, coming after a period where she explored the music of legendary Mexican composer Agustín Lara. This experience as a performer rather than a writer helped Lafourcade rediscover her passion for original songwriting. “Hasta la Raíz” captures this reawakened inspiration and embodies her journey back to her creative origins, blending elements of nostalgia and personal history into her music.

The song is about resilience, rootedness, and the powerful pull of one’s homeland. Lafourcade has explained that “Hasta la Raíz” speaks to the sense of connection she feels to Mexico—its landscapes, traditions, and her own family. The lyrics reflect a commitment to staying true to her roots, even as she grows and evolves. With a minimalist and heartfelt style, she conveys the strength and support of cultural and familial ties, painting an intimate portrait of her heritage through her words and melodies.

Musically, Lafourcade sought simplicity and emotional directness. Influenced by Latin American artists like Chavela Vargas and Violeta Parra, she recorded voice notes and fragments on her phone, building a collection of songs with a raw, stripped-down feel. With producer Cachorro López and García’s huapango-inspired riffs, the creative process behind “Hasta la Raíz” became an organic, almost magical experience. The song’s emotional depth and clarity make it a powerful anthem about honoring one’s roots while embracing personal growth.

The song’s music video, released in April 2015, adds to its charm with an unusual approach. Lafourcade invited fans to participate through a contest on her social media, giving them a unique chance to be part of the production. Shot in a single take, the video underscores the song’s simplicity and Lafourcade’s connection with her audience, creating a warm, cohesive visual experience that mirrors the song’s theme of returning to the essential parts of oneself.

 

Sources:

Wikipedia