Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
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.
Cara negra is a Tango written by José Rótulo and composed by Edgardo Donato.
“Cara negra,” meaning “Black Face” in English, delves into the life and emotions of a man proud of his African heritage but pained by the societal perceptions attached to his dark skin. Through his lyrics, Rótulo highlights the inner world of the protagonist who insists that despite his complexion being dark, his soul carries the light and color of hope. The juxtaposition of his outer appearance and his inner emotional landscape offers a poetic study of contrast as influenced by racial identity and social expectations.
The term “Cara negra” itself is symbolic. It lays the foundation for discussing themes of race, identity, and social equality through the lens of personal experience and expression. The key phrases like “Todos me llaman mulato” and “Aunque soy de cara negra” reflect the societal labeling based on skin color and the narrator’s acceptance yet defiance to such categorization, emphasizing personal integrity over social judgement. The reference to dreaming as a white (“Sueño como sueña un blanco”) can be seen as a longing for universality in human emotions and experiences. This symbolism extends to emotional resilience and the yearning for a common humanity beyond racial divides.
The song was recorded on March 11, 1942, in Argentina—an era marked by its own set of social and political complexities. During this period, Argentina was distinctive with its cultural heterogeneity yet plagued by social stratifications and racial prejudices. “Cara negra” served not only as a manifestation of personal identity but also as a subtle commentary on the broader societal issues of that era. By including culturally significant elements like the Recova, San Ignacio, and Monserrat, Rótulo anchors the narrative in a deeply localized Buenos Aires context, enhancing the authenticity and historical relevance of the protagonist’s surroundings and experiences.
José Rótulo was a prominent lyricist of his time, known for using his work to provide emotionally rich narratives and complex characters in the landscape of Argentine music.