arts | February 15, 2026

The Meaning Behind The Song: Amigos Tengo por Cientos by León Gieco

Song Information

TitleAmigos Tengo por Cientos
ArtistLeón Gieco
Writer/ComposerSixto Palavecino & Cacho Lobos
AlbumDe Usuahia a La Quiaca 3 (1986)

Amigos tengo por cientos
Para toda mi delicia
Yo lo digo sin malicia
Con verdadero contento
Yo soy amiga del viento
Que rije por las alturas
Amiga de las honduras
Con vueltas y torbellinos
Amiga del aire fino
Con toda su travesura
Yo soy amigo del fuego
Del astro mas relumbrante
Porque en el cielo arrogante
Camina como su dueño
Amigo soy del ruiseñor
Relampago de la luna
Con toda su donosura
Alumbra la mar furiosa
Y amigo de las frondosas
Obscuridades nocturnas
Amigo del solitario
Lucero de la mañana
Y de la brisa temprana
Que brilla como un rosario
Amiga del jardinario
Del arco de las alianzas
Amiga soy de confianza
De nubes y nubarrones
Tambien de los arreboles
En todas las circumstancias
Amigo soy de la lluvia
Porque es un arpa sonora
De alambres y de bordonas
Que tuntunean con furia
Amigo de las centuria
De los espacios tesoros
Y de los cerros sonoros
Que guardan los granizales
Amigo de los raudales
Que entonan su lindo coro
Amiga de la neblina
Que ronda los horizontes
Cordillerales y montes
Con su presencia tan fina
La nieve por blanquesina
Poblados y soledades
Bonanzas y tempestades
Son mis amigos sinceros
Pero mi canto el primero
De todas mis amistades

Table of Contents

Credits

Written By: Sixto Palavecino & Cacho Lobos

Backing Vocals: Gustavo Santaolalla

Vocals: Isabel Parra & León Gieco

Guitar: León Gieco & Gustavo Santaolalla

Amigos Tengo por Cientos is a song by the legendary Argentine singer-songwriter León Gieco. It was released in 1986 as part of his album “De Usuahia a La Quiaca 3”. The song was written by Sixto Palavecino and Cacho Lobos, and features backing vocals by Gustavo Santaolalla, as well as vocals by Isabel Parra and León Gieco himself.

This song holds a special meaning for me personally. Growing up in Argentina, León Gieco’s music was always present in my household. His songs not only captured the essence of Argentine folk music but also addressed social and political issues, making him one of the most influential artists of his time.

Amigos Tengo por Cientos, which translates to “I Have Friends by the Hundreds” in English, is a beautiful ode to nature and friendship. The lyrics speak of a deep connection with the elements, like the wind, fire, rain, and even the fog. Each verse paints a vivid picture of the different aspects of nature and how they become friends and companions.

For me, this song is a reminder of the importance of appreciating and respecting the natural world around us. It teaches us to see the beauty in every element and to value the relationships we have with them.

León Gieco’s soulful vocals combined with the poetic lyrics evoke a sense of awe and wonder. Listening to this song takes me back to my childhood, when I would sit with my family and sing along to Gieco’s heartfelt tunes. It reminds me of the strong bond that music can create between people and how it can transcend language and cultural differences.

The inclusion of Gustavo Santaolalla’s backing vocals and the beautiful guitar melodies by both León Gieco and Gustavo Santaolalla add a layer of depth and emotion to the song. The harmonies and arrangements perfectly complement the lyrics, creating a truly immersive listening experience.

Music has always been a powerful tool for expressing emotions and telling stories. Amigos Tengo por Cientos is a prime example of how music can transport us to different worlds and connect us on a profound level. It allows us to reflect on our own personal connections with nature and the friendships we cherish.

In conclusion, Amigos Tengo por Cientos by León Gieco is a poetic masterpiece that celebrates the beauty of nature and the value of friendship. Through its powerful lyrics and soul-stirring melodies, the song reminds us to appreciate the natural world around us and cherish the friendships we have.

Whether you understand the Spanish lyrics or not, the universal language of music can still move and touch your heart. So take a moment, listen to this beautiful song, and let it transport you to a world of awe and wonder.