The guitar tab (chords and melody) for “El Reloj” is available for download as a PDF.
El Reloj
“El Reloj” (“The Clock”) is a timeless Mexican bolero written and composed by Roberto Cantoral in 1956. Inspired by a fleeting romance during a U.S. tour with his trio Los Tres Caballeros, Cantoral penned the poignant lyrics—pleading with time to stop as love slips away—after a final night in Washington, D.C., watching a lounge clock tick toward separation. Premiered live by Los Tres Caballeros in 1957, it became an instant success and was first recorded commercially around then, with a landmark 1958 version by the iconic Trío Los Panchos boosting its fame.
Its heartfelt plea (“Reloj, no marques la hora, porque voy a enloquecer”) captured the essence of romantic longing in the golden age of bolero. Recorded over 1,000 times, notable performers include Lucho Gatica (a classic early take), José José, Luis Miguel, Plácido Domingo, and even Joan Báez and Linda Ronstadt in diverse styles. Cantoral earned gold records for it, and its enduring melody remains a staple in Latin music, evoking deep emotion across generations.
Guitar Tab
Quick note: This is my affiliate link for Sheet Music Direct. I earn a small commission from purchases made through it—thank you for the support!