[Music] De Nino Bravo a Pinky Dread: El viaje de "Un beso y una flor" de la balada al reggae [ENG/SPA]

Released in 1972 and composed by the masters José Luis Armenteros and Pablo Herrero, “Un beso y una flor” is much more than a romantic ballad: it is the definitive anthem of goodbyes and new beginnings. Nino Bravo’s voice, with its impeccable power and unique warmth, turns every verse into an unforgettable experience.

Although I was born in 1971 and this song wasn’t strictly part of my youth, it touches my soul deeply. There’s something magical about emotional memories: when I was just a toddler, the house was filled with the music my parents listened to. Those poetic lyrics, brimming with sincere hope, seeped into my senses from a very young age. Listening to it today isn’t just about enjoying a musical gem; it’s about connecting with that musical heritage, with the love and affection I grew up with.

Below, I’m sharing the lyrics to this beautiful song:

I’ll leave my homeland for you
I’ll leave my fields and go away
Far from here

I’ll cross the garden, weeping
And, with your memories, I’ll set out
Far from here

By day, I’ll live
Thinking of your smiles
By night, the stars will keep me company

You’ll be like a light
That illuminates my path
I’m leaving, but I swear I’ll be back tomorrow

As I leave, a kiss and a flower
An “I love you,” a caress, and a goodbye
It’s light luggage
For such a long journey
Sorrows weigh heavy on the heart

Beyond the sea, there will be a place
Where the sun shines brighter every morning
The stones along the way will shape my destiny
What we hold dear always remains behind

I’ll find a home for you
Where the sky meets the sea
Far from here

With my hands and your love
I’ll find a new dream
Far from here

By day I’ll live
Thinking of your smiles
At night, the stars will keep me company

You’ll be like a light
That illuminates my path
I’m leaving, but I swear I’ll be back tomorrow

As I leave, a kiss and a flower
An “I love you,” a caress, and a goodbye
It’s light luggage
For such a long journey
Sorrows weigh heavy on the heart

Beyond the sea, there will be a place
Where the sun shines brighter every morning
The stones along the way will shape my destiny
What we hold dear always stays behind

As I leave, a kiss and a flower
An “I love you,” a caress, and a goodbye
It’s light luggage
For such a long journey
Sorrows weigh heavy on the heart

— Nino Bravo

The orchestral production of the 1970s creates a wonderful crescendo that perfectly accompanies the emotional journey of the lyrics: the melancholy of leaving and the courage to seek a new horizon.

Fun fact: Although it’s an absolute classic of Spanish-language pop, the song transcended linguistic boundaries. Jamaican singer Pinky Dread released the official English-language version titled “Got To Leave,” adapting the melody to a smooth reggae rhythm with the authorization of the song’s heirs.