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Champagne tango

Champagne tango is a Tango written by Manuel Aróztegui and recorded by Carlos di Sarli in 1944. Carlos di Sarli has recorded Champagne tango as an instrumental Tango.
“Champagne Tango,” or “Tango de Champán” in its original Spanish, evokes a dance wrapped in effervescent elegance and sophisticated allure. The name suggests a celebration where every step resonates with the clinking of crystal and the playfulness of bubbles. It paints a scene of lovers swaying under dimly lit chandeliers, where music and emotion entwine in a jubilant embrace.

Tango

Style

Carlos di Sarli

Orchestra

Instrumental

Singer

Pascual Contursi

Author

Manuel Aróztegui

Composer

1944/7/20

Date

Instrumental
Instrumental
Carlos di Sarli
Carlos di Sarli

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Champagne tango recorded by other Orchestras

Champagne tango recorded by other Orchestras

Letra del Tango Champagne tango

Esas minas veteranas
que siempre se conformaban,
que nunca la protestaban
aunque picara el buyón,
viviendo así en su cotorro
pasando vida pibera
en una pobre catrera
que le faltaba el colchón.

¡Cuántas veces a mate amargo
el estomago engrupía
y pasaban muchos días
sin tener para morfar!
La catrera era el consuelo
de esos ratos de amargura
que, culpa ‘e la mishiadura
no tenía pa’ morfar.

Se acabaron esas minas
que siempre se conformaban
con lo que el bacán les daba
si era bacán de verdad.
Hoy sólo quieren vestidos
y riquísimas alhajas,
coches de capota baja
pa’ pasear por la ciudad.

Nadie quiere conventillo
ni ser pobre costurera,
ni tampoco andar fulera…
Sólo quieren aparentar
ser amigo de fulano
y que tenga mucho vento
que alquile departamento
y que la lleve al Pigall.

Tener un coche,
tener mucama
y gran ‘chapó’
y pa’ las farras
un gigoló;
pieza alfombrada
de gran parada,
tener sirvienta
y… ¡qué se yo!
Y así…
de esta manera
en donde quiera
‘champán tangó’.

English lyrics of the Tango "Champagne tango"

Those veteran dames
who were always content,
who never protested
even when the purse was lean,
living in their little place
leading a youthful life
on a poor old cot
missing its mattress.

How many times with bitter mate
they tricked their stomach
and many days went by
without having food to chew!
The cot was the consolation
for those moments of bitterness
that, due to poverty,
left nothing to eat.

Those dames are gone
who were always content
with what their sugar daddies gave
if they were truly generous.
Now they only want dresses
and the finest jewels,
convertible cars
to parade through the city.

No one wants a tenement
or to be a humble seamstress,
nor to get by looking shabby…
They only want to pretend
to be friends with so-and-so
who has plenty of cash,
who rents an apartment
and takes them to Pigalle.

To have a car,
to have a maid
and grand show,
and for the wild life
a gigolo;
a carpeted room
with great display,
to have a servant
and… who knows!
And thus…
in this way
anywhere
“champagne tango.”

Champagne Tango by

Champagne Tango is a Tango written by and composed by Manuel Aróztegui.

Story behind the Tango Champagne Tango

The story told within “Champagne Tango” is one of contrast between past and present, capturing the emotional journey of individuals living in Buenos Aires. The lyrics reflect on the struggles and humble lifestyles of earlier generations, particularly “minas veteranas” (veteran women), who faced hardships without complaint. The evolution from accepting meager conditions to a modern desire for luxury and status signifies societal changes over time. This narrative evokes a sense of nostalgia for the perceived simplicity and endurance of the past, juxtaposed against the superficial endeavors of contemporary life.

Symbolism of Champagne Tango

The tango utilizes strong symbolism, particularly with references to simple, humble living conditions contrasted against extravagant desires. Key phrases like “esas minas veteranas” and “cuántas veces a mate amargo” suggest resilience and poverty, whereas “coches de capota baja” and “que la lleve al Pigall” symbolize the longing for luxury and high social status. The term “champagne tango” itself embodies the shift towards opulence and decadence, mirroring the societal changes in Buenos Aires during that time. These language choices highlight both a change in values and social norms.

Champagne Tango in Historic Context

Created in 1944 in Buenos Aires, “Champagne Tango” reflects the city’s social dynamics during that era. The 1940s in Argentina were marked by shifts in economic and social realms, influencing the behaviors and desires expressed in the tango. As Buenos Aires was evolving into a modern metropolis, with growing economic opportunities, the contrast between poverty and newfound wealth becomes apparent. This contrast is depicted through the lyrics that emphasize both the grit of past experiences and a burgeoning consumer culture marked by desires for luxury and social ascension.

About the Composer

Manuel Aróztegui was an accomplished composer known for his contributions to the tango genre. His work reflects the rich cultural and emotive tapestry of Argentina, capturing both the struggles and aspirations of its people.