I’m Not Your Puppet

Official music video for Las Cafeteras 2020 single “I’m Not Your Puppet”.

Recorded ‘LIVE’ at Lucy’s Meat Market on Tongva Land now Los Angeles, CA.
Originally written by Dan Penn and Spooner Oldham; recorded by James & Bobby Purify in 1966.

A remake of the classic oldie anthem “I’m Your Puppet” with a simple and profound twist … when you add the word, “Not.” “I’lI do anything … if you want me to … but I’m NOT your puppet.” A statement that says, I love you – but that doesn’t mean you own me. A reflection of changing times and the movement to abolish toxic power dynamics in all relationships. We invite you to look back at some of our favorite movies, T.V shows, songs and evaluate what we love about them … and what we would change about them.

As Chicanos we grew up with the beauty of Mexican culture, along with its antiquated adherence to traditional gender roles. So we share this song to support a consensual love, a reciprocal love, a love without borders that says I LOVE YOU but I LOVE ME FIRST.

Our version was created with Afro-Mexican instrumentation including Requinto Jarocho, Jarana, Cajon, and the stomp box called the “Tarima.”

Enjoy!

Denise Carlos – Vox
Leah Gallegos – Vox
Daniel French – Jarana, Vox
Hector Flores – Glockenspiel, Vox
Jose Cano – Cajon
Jorge Mijangos – Bass
Xocoyotzin Moraza – Requinto Jarocho, Vox

Music Video Credits:
Recording Engineer: Pete Min
Mixed & Mastered by: Brendan Dekora
Video Directed & Edited by: Damon Vonn
Additional Music Production: Wil-Dog Abers
Filmed and Recorded at: Lucy’s Meat Market