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.
Chiqué is a Tango written by Ricardo Brignolo and composed by Ricardo Luis Brignolo.
The lyrics of “Chiqué” evoke the tale of a bittersweet remembrance and unrequited love set against the backdrop of Argentinean society. It reflects on the transformation of a beloved person, who has apparently been changed by wealth and a new lifestyle (“con las pilchas tan de bute”), much to the dismay of the narrator who reminisces about their earlier, happier days spent in poorer circumstances (“aquel bulín donde los viejos recuerdos y alegrías que vivistes te hicieron tan feliz”). The term “chiqué” in this context implies pretentiousness or affected behaviors, suggesting the beloved’s new ways are just a facade.
The term “chiqué” itself acts as a rich symbol throughout the Tango. It refers to a pretense or an affectation, an idea that is encapsulated in the song through the transformation of the woman from her humble beginnings to her current affluent status. This change brings forth themes of authenticity versus superficiality, the societal impact of wealth, and the core values that define personal relationships. The narrator uses phrases like “soy de línea, soy de línea yo también” to assert his own integrity and straightforwardness in contrast to the affected behaviors he now sees in his beloved.
Released in 1953, a period marked by significant political and social changes in Argentina, “Chiqué” reflects elements of societal commentary. This era was overshadowed by the influence of Juan Domingo Perón, whose leadership profoundly impacted every stratum of Argentine society. In this context, the Tango could be interpreted as highlighting the moral and social dilemmas stemming from rapid socio-economic changes, symbolized by the personal story of the woman’s transformation.
Ricardo Brignolo was an Argentine lyricist known for his contributions to the Tango genre, capturing deep emotional and societal insights through his works.