Clandestino (Manu Chao song)

"Clandestino" is the second single and the title track from Manu Chao's first album, Clandestino. The lyrics of the song are sung in Spanish and deal with the issue of immigration: "I wrote it about the border between Europe and those coming from poorer nations. Look around — maybe 30% of the people in this street are [illegal]." The song peaked at number 78 on the French charts. It charted again in November 2013, peaking at number 196.

Track listings

1. "Clandestino"
2. "Bienvenido A Tijuana" (More Image Version)
3. "Mama Call"
4. "Clandestino" (Enhanced Video)

Music video

A music video was produced for the song along with the album track which appears on the single, "Mama Call".

Cover versions

• Argentinian singer Pil Trafa (El monopolio de las palabras, 2004)
• Playing for Change released a version, featuring Manu Chao and other musicians from around the world (2014)
• Adriana Calcanhotto (Público - (Ao Vivo), 2000)
• Tihuana (Ilegal, 2000)
• Fiorella Mannoia (Concerti, 2004)
• Scala & Kolacny Brothers (2005)
• El Gafla (featuring Manu Chao) (pA/Ris-Casbah, 2006)
• José Mercé
• NoBraino (in Italian)
• Modena City Ramblers (Tracce clandestine, 2015)
• Lila Downs (Al Chile, 2019)
• Sombra Alor (2025)

Certifications

References