Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
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These Tangos, Valses, and Milongas were recorded around the same time. Take a look to discover what else this orchestra—or others—may have recorded during the same week or even on the exact same day.
Bigotito is a Tango written by Gerónimo Martinelli Massa, Ismael Aguilar and composed by Manuel Buzón.
“Bigotito,” which translates to “Little Mustache” in English, paints a vivid picture of a young man in 1931 Argentina, dressed in a distinctively styled outfit, perhaps overly elaborate with thirty-buttoned jackets and uniquely shaped boots. These descriptions of his clothing, along with the small hat and a Chaplin-like mustache, all serve to caricature the persona. The lyrics humorously portray how outdated or comedic this figure appears, potentially to his own father, who if alive, might disapprove of such modern get-ups, suggesting a generational gap in fashion and societal values.
The small mustache, “Bigotito,” explicitly references Charlie Chaplin, symbolizing a quirky and perhaps frivolous persona, out of step with more traditional or macho expectations. The detailed depiction of his attire, consisting of tailored coats, distinctive shoes, and a carelessly tied scarf adds to this imagery, creating a contrast between the protagonist’s superficiality and societal expectations of masculinity. This adds an element of social commentary on the evolving fashions and values of early 20th century Argentina, where global influences were seeping into local culture, manifesting in both resistance and acceptance.
Recorded in 1931, “Bigotito” arrives at a time when Buenos Aires was becoming more cosmopolitan, yet still clung to traditional Latin American values. The global influence of cinema, particularly the silent film stars like Charlie Chaplin, inspired trends and fashion that younger generations eagerly adopted, often to the dismay of their more conservative elders. This tango reflects this cultural shift, using the character’s appearance and lifestyle choices (illustrated by his romance with a high-society girl despite his unconventional looks) to comment on broader social changes.
Gerónimo Martinelli Massa and Ismael Aguilar were notable figures in the Argentine tango scene, contributing richly to its narrative and musical expression during a burgeoning era for the genre.