Song Introduction
“Conteo Regresivo” is one of the signature hits of Puerto Rican salsa legend Gilberto Santa Rosa, released in 2007 as part of his Grammy-winning album Contraste. Known as El Caballero de la Salsa (The Gentleman of Salsa), Santa Rosa blends romantic lyricism with dance-floor energy, and this track quickly became a fan favorite. The song showcases his mastery of salsa romántica, pairing heartfelt lyrics with a powerful orchestra arrangement.
Original Lyrics (Spanish – Key Verses)
He pensado tantas veces,
que el amor es una prueba,
que no se entrega a cualquiera,
ni se compra con riqueza.
Hoy me siento tan seguro,
que me atrevo a confesar,
que te amo como nunca
y no te pienso defraudar.
English Translation
I’ve thought so many times,
that love is a test,
it’s not given to just anyone,
nor bought with riches.
Today I feel so certain,
that I dare to confess,
that I love you like never before
and I won’t let you down.
Breakdown & Meaning
“Conteo Regresivo” translates to “Countdown”, symbolizing the anticipation and intensity of love as if every moment builds toward an explosion of emotion.
- Romantic Salsa at its core – The song is both deeply personal and made for dancing, which is Santa Rosa’s hallmark. His smooth yet commanding delivery balances vulnerability with confidence.
- Metaphors of certainty and passion – The countdown represents inevitability, emphasizing how love feels unstoppable once it takes over.
- Cultural impact – In salsa romántica, love and heartbreak are central, but Santa Rosa elevated the genre by infusing poetic lyrics with arrangements that work on radio, in concerts, and in the club scene.
This combination explains why “Conteo Regresivo” remains one of his most requested songs in live performances worldwide.
Fan Takeaway
For fans, “Conteo Regresivo” is more than a love song; it’s a declaration of passion and commitment. It captures the beauty of being so sure about someone that you’re willing to count down and leap into love without hesitation.
For international listeners discovering salsa, this track is the perfect entry point into Gilberto Santa Rosa’s artistry: elegant, romantic, and irresistibly danceable. It shows why he continues to be celebrated as one of the genre’s most enduring voices.