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.
De pura cepa is a Tango written by Osvaldo Sosa Cordero and composed by José Ceglie.
The lyrics of “De pura cepa” celebrate the milonga, a musical genre and dance that predates and influenced the tango. The song strikes a tone of nostalgia and respect, outlining a sense of pride and honor towards this traditional dance and music style of Argentina. The lyricist paints a picture of the milonga as being overshadowed by its progeny, tango, yet not forgotten, filled with a rich history and deep emotional roots. Phrases like “Milonga de mi Argentina” and “milonga, madre del tango” underscores the milonga as a fundamental, almost maternal part of Argentine music culture.
The title itself, “De pura cepa,” translates to “Of pure breed” or “Of the true stock,” symbolizing authenticity and deep-rooted heritage. The repetitive celebration of milonga as “Lindaza como la aurora, sencilla como el percal” (beautiful like the dawn, simple as printed calico) uses the imagery of natural beauty and simplicity to stress the pure, unpretentious nature of milonga. This symbolism elevates the milonga while also denoting a contrast to tango, perhaps seen as more sophisticated or complex.
The song was penned and recorded amidst an era (1935) when tango was the dominant force in Argentine music, often overshadowing its own roots. The lyrics of “De pura cepa” serve not only as a homage but also as a reminder of the origins of Argentine musical culture, emphasizing the foundational role of milonga. The historical and geographical context underscores a time of musical evolution and the tension between tradition and modernity in Argentine society. Additionally, during this period, Argentina was experiencing significant political and social changes, which often influenced the thematic overtones of its cultural productions.
Osvaldo Sosa Cordero was an esteemed Argentine lyricist known for his contributions to folklore and tango, often infused with a profound sense of national identity and cultural pride.