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 puro guapo is a Tango written by Manuel Meaños and composed by Pedro Laurenz.
The tango “De puro guapo” delves deep into the themes of machismo, bravery, and romantic pursuit. The lyrics depict a man’s intense effort to win over the woman he desires, using bold and audacious tactics. He speaks directly to her, recounting how he shared his passionate feelings through whispered poetic words during their dance— a dynamic marked by typical tango movements like “cortes y quebradas”. The title itself, “De puro guapo,” roughly translates to “Out of sheer boldness,” interestingly sets the tone for understanding the protagonist’s character and approach as one driven by raw courage and traditional notions of masculinity.
In “De puro guapo,” symbolic elements enrich the narrative. For instance, “facón,” a large fighting knife typical in Argentina, symbolizes the man’s readiness to fight for his love, depicting his courage and determination. Similarly, the contrasts between his described physical expressions (“en un brazo el trapo tenga y en otro el facón”) – a bandage on one arm and a knife on the other – enhance his bravado and readiness to endure pain for love. His vow to wager his life for her affection at the card table metaphorically speaks to the risks he’s willing to take, portraying a high-stakes emotional gamble.
Recorded in 1964, a period when tango music often reflected personal stories and broader social themes, “De puro guapo” mirrors the enduring cultural values of bravery and personal honor prevalent in Argentina. This era was marked by political and social upheavals, and such expressions of individual determination and bravado might have resonated strongly with the local populace, epitomizing a collective yearning for stability and resistance in the face of adversity.
Manuel Meaños is renowned for his contributions to Tango, enriching the genre with his deep, poignant lyrics that often explore complex emotions and social narratives.