Derecho viejo by Gabriel Clausi

Derecho viejo is a Tango written by Gabriel Clausi and composed by Eduardo Arolas.

Story behind the Tango Derecho viejo

Derecho viejo, meaning “Old Right” in English, captivates a nostalgic essence, reflecting on the bittersweet nature of love, memory, and the passage of time within the urban landscape of Buenos Aires. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the city’s nightlife imbued with shades of melancholy and yearning. The narrative is a homage to the tango itself, depicted as a living entity embodying the spirit of the city—both in its high-society elegance and its streetwise charm.

Symbolism of Derecho viejo

The central symbol in Derecho viejo is the bandoneón, which represents the soul of tango music. Its sound, described as mournful, mirrors the heartache of an unfulfilled love. Phrases like “Oigo el cantar de un triste bandoneón” and “che, bandoneón, con tu chamuyo reo” emphasize the bandoneón’s role as a storyteller, recounting tales of lost affections and reflective nostalgia. The use of “tango de mi ciudad” and “nobleza de arrabal” highlights the cultural richness and the sentimental value attributed to local traditions and relationships formed in the barrios or neighborhoods.

Derecho viejo in historic Context

Released in 1953, Derecho viejo arrives at a time when Argentina was going through significant political and social changes. This period saw a resurgence of nationalism and a complex relationship with modernity and tradition. The tango acts not only as a reflection of personal emotions but also as a cultural response to the broader societal transformations occurring at the time. It serves as a bridge between the old and the new, encapsulating the timeless essence of Buenos Aires amidst the evolving urban landscape.

Gabriel Clausi

Composer Gabriel Clausi, often regarded as a key figure in the Argentine tango scene, is known for his deep musicality and connection to the traditional roots of tango.