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El Condor Pasa


"El Condor Pasa" is a well-known song written by Peruvian composer Daniel Alomia Robles and lyrics by Julio de La Paz. The song is originally in the key of E minor. Dating back to the early 20th century, this traditional Andean folk song gained worldwide popularity, especially when it was adapted and performed by Simon & Garfunkel in their 1970 album "Bridge Over Troubled Water." Despite being misattributed as a traditional folk melody, Robles composed the music for the zarzuela "El Cóndor Pasa," which premiered in 1913. The song's lyrical content revolves around nature and the majestic condor bird, symbolizing freedom and the universal longing for spiritual elevation. With its iconic pan flute melody and rhythmic guitar accompaniment, "El Condor Pasa" has become synonymous with Andean music and has been covered by numerous artists from around the world.