Released: 2018
Features: Young Thug
“Havana” by Camila Cabello, featuring Young Thug, is a spicy blend of pop and Cuban vibes, telling a story of love that’s as intoxicating as the city itself. Cabello pays homage to her native Cuba and Atlanta, where her lover is from, making it a tale of romance straddling two worlds.
The lyrics “Havana, ooh na-na (ayy), Half of my heart is in Havana, ooh na-na (ayy, ayy), He took me back to East Atlanta, na-na-na, ah, oh, but my heart is in Havana (ayy)” reveal a sentimental struggle. She’s physically present in East Atlanta due to her love interest, but her heart yearns for Havana – her roots and identity. The repeated chorus underscores this conflict.
Her love interest’s entrance line, “He didn’t walk up with that ‘how you doin’?’ (uh), when he came in the room, he said there’s a lot of girls I can do with (uh), but I can’t without you,” presents him as someone who doesn’t bother with small talk, immediately showing deep interest in Cabello. He’s straightforward and confident, bringing an intriguing dynamic into their relationship.
Cabello further deepens their connection with “I knew him forever in a minute (hey), that summer night in June, and papa says he got malo in him (uh).” She speaks to a quick, passionate summer love that has her father warning her about his ‘bad boy’ vibes. The phrase “malo in him” is Spanish slang meaning ‘bad in him.’
Young Thug’s verse, “Jeffery, just graduated, fresh on campus, mmm, fresh out East Atlanta with no manners, damn,” provides an introduction to his character. The lyrics are brimming with youthful rebellion, excitement and hinting at the rough-around-the-edges allure that draws Cabello to him.
The song concludes with “Ooh-na-na, oh-na-na-na (yeah, babe), take me back, back, back like…,” which reaffirms her longing for Havana, despite her presence in East Atlanta. ‘Take me back’ gives listeners an idea of the emotional depth and strength of her yearning for her homeland.
When it’s all said and done, “Havana” is much more than just a catchy pop tune. It’s a potent narrative about cultural identity, love divided across geographical borders, and the strong pull of one’s roots. Clearly, Cabello isn’t just singing about any city; she’s singing about a city that holds half her heart.
