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.
Derecho viejo is a Tango written by Gabriel Clausi and composed by Eduardo Arolas.
The lyrics of “Derecho viejo” paint vivid pictures of the urban landscape and emotions tied to the city life of Buenos Aires. The tango elaborates on themes of love, nostalgia, and city ambiance, all interwoven with a deep, emotional connection to the music expressed by the bandoneón. The song describes a yearning for the emotions of a past love that can no longer be relived, encapsulating a melancholic longing for what once was and can never return.
The text is rich with symbolism that heightens its poetic nature. Key phrases such as “llora en su canción” (cries in its song) and “la pena de un amor” (the sorrow of a love) use personification to ascribe a depth of feeling to the music itself, particularly the melodies of the bandoneón which is emblematic of Tango. This choice underlines music’s role as not just a component but a narrator of grief and passion. “Nobleza de arrabal” (nobility of the slum) is another poignant symbol that evokes a sense of dignity and deep cultural roots associated with the marginalized neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, from where Tango originally sprang.
Recorded in 1948, a significant period when Argentina was undergoing profound political and social changes, “Derecho viejo” may reflect the sentiments of the era. During this time, the urban population dealt with complex emotions as Buenos Aires was rapidly modernizing, possibly leading residents to cling more fervently to cultural pillars like Tango. This song can be seen as a manifestation of the societal need to retain traditions amidst inevitable progress emphasizing the undying essence of Tango in the Argentine soul.
Known as “El Chula Clausi,” Gabriel Clausi was a highly influential Argentine bandoneonist and tango composer. His work, including “Derecho viejo,” has left a lasting impact on the tango music scene.