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Don Juan

Don Juan is a Tango written by Ernesto Ponzio and recorded by Juan D’Arienzo in 1948. Juan D’Arienzo has recorded Don Juan as an instrumental Tango.
The piece of music titled “Don Juan,” which translates to “Mr. John” in English, captures the essence of a passionate and elusive character. Known for his charisma and allure, Don Juan embodies the dance of desire, weaving through life’s intricate rhythms. This musical interpretation evokes the timeless tale of charm and pursuit, enveloping listeners in an enchanting tango of mystery and romance.

Tango

Style

Juan D'Arienzo

Orchestra

Instrumental

Singer

Ricardo Podesta

Author

Ernesto Ponzio

Composer

1948/6/15

Date

Instrumental
Instrumental
Juan D'Arienzo
Juan D’Arienzo

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Don Juan recorded by other Orchestras

Don Juan recorded by other Orchestras

Letra del Tango Don Juan

En el tango soy tan taura
que cuando hago un doble corte
corre la voz por el Norte,
si es que me encuentro en el Sud.
Y pa bailar la Yuyeta
si es que me visto a la moda
la gente me dice toda
Dios le dé, Dios le dé, vida y salud.

Calá, che, calá.
Siga el piano, che,
dése cuenta usted
y después dirá
si con este taita
podrán por el Norte
calá che, qué corte,
calá, che, calá.

No hay teatro que no conozca
pues hasta soy medio artista
y luego tengo una vista
que hasta dicen que soy luz.
Y la forma de mi cuerpo
arreglada a mi vestido
me hacen mozo muy querido,
lo juro, lo juro por esta cruz.

Yo soy el taita del barrio,
pregúnteselo a cualquiera.
No es esta la vez primera
en que me han de conocer.
Yo vivo por San Cristóbal,
me llaman Don Juan Cabello,
anóteselo en el cuello
y ahí va, y ahí va, así me quieren ver.

English lyrics of the Tango "Don Juan"

In tango, I’m so tough
that when I do a double cut
word spreads through the North,
if I happen to be in the South.
And to dance the Yuyeta,
if I dress in style
everyone tells me
may God give you, may God give you life and health.

Stop, hey, stop.
Follow the piano, hey,
take notice
and then you’ll say
if with this guy
they could in the North
stop hey, what a cut,
stop, hey, stop.

There’s no theater I don’t know
I’m even somewhat an artist
and then I have a vision
they even say I am the light.
And the shape of my body
tailored to my suit
makes me a beloved young man,
I swear, I swear by this cross.

I am the boss of the neighborhood,
ask anyone.
This isn’t the first time
they’ve come to know me.
I live by San Cristóbal,
they call me Don Juan Cabello,
note it on your collar
and there it goes, and there it goes, that’s how they like to see me.

Don Juan by Ricardo Podesta

Story behind the Tango Don Juan

“Don Juan” lyricized by Ricardo Podesta and composed by Ernesto Ponzio, captures the essence of Argentine culture through the dance of tango. The lyrics speak from the perspective of a protagonist who takes immense pride in his tango dancing skills. This character is known widely across different territories (“corre la voz por el Norte, si es que me encuentro en el Sud”) for his dancing prowess, creating an image of a man whose reputation precedes him. The tango is reflective of a personal narrative, celebrating individual skill and charm.

Symbolism of Don Juan

The name “Don Juan” itself traditionally symbolizes a captivating seducer, often used in literary contexts. This nickname in the song symbolizes the charm and appeal that the protagonist holds through his tango skills. Phrases like “Dios le dé, Dios le dé, vida y salud” suggest that his dancing not only brings him fame but also blessings and well-wishes from people. Moreover, the repeated lines “calá, che, calá” might be seen as calls to pay attention, emphasizing the remarkable dance moves he successfully executes.

Don Juan in historic Context

Created in mid-20th century Argentina, “Don Juan” manifests the cultural importance of tango during this period, a time when tango was more than just a dance but a social practice woven into the daily lives of Argentinians. The protagonist’s travels between the north and south of the country reflect the widespread appeal of tango across different regions, and his mention of places like San Cristóbal situates him within a specific cultural and geographical landscape recognizable to the local audience. This era, post World War II, was a time of cultural consolidation in Argentina, where local arts like tango were celebrated and deeply embedded in the national identity.

Ricardo Podesta

Ricardo Podesta is notably recognized as a lyricist who contributed to the Argentine tango scene, capturing its spirit and culture in his works. Known for his vivid storytelling through lyrics, Podesta’s works often reflect deep connections with Argentine traditions and daily life.