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Don Juan

Don Juan is a Tango written by Ernesto Ponzio and recorded by Carlos di Sarli in 1951. Carlos di Sarli has recorded Don Juan as an instrumental Tango.
The piece of music, “Don Juan,” translates to “Sir John” in English. With each note, it paints the portrait of an enigmatic and charismatic figure, a master of charm and allure. As the melody unfolds, it whispers tales of passion and adventure, capturing the restless spirit of a man eternally chasing love and desire.

Tango

Style

Carlos di Sarli

Orchestra

Instrumental

Singer

Ricardo Podesta

Author

Ernesto Ponzio

Composer

1951/12/6

Date

Instrumental
Instrumental
Carlos di Sarli
Carlos di Sarli

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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 such a master
that when I do a double step,
word spreads in the North,
if I’m found in the South.
And to dance the Yuyeta,
if I’m dressed fashionably,
people all say to me,
May God give you, may God give you, life and health.

Quiet, hey, quiet.
Follow the piano, hey,
notice yourself,
and then you’ll say
if with this tough guy
they can in the North.
Quiet, hey, what a move,
quiet, hey, quiet.

There’s no theater I don’t know,
for I’m even a bit of an artist,
and I have such sharp sight
they even say I’m light.
And the way my body is shaped,
suited to my clothes,
makes me a well-loved lad,
I swear, I swear on this cross.

I am the tough guy of the neighborhood,
ask anyone around here.
This is not the first time
that they’ve known me well.
I live in San Cristóbal,
they call me Don Juan Cabello,
write it down in your neck,
and there you go, and there you go, that’s how they want to see me.

Don Juan by

Don Juan is a Tango written by and composed by Ernesto Ponzio.

Story behind the Tango Don Juan

In “Don Juan,” the narrator presents himself as a larger-than-life figure within the tango community, known for his prowess in dancing and charm. The lyrics depict a character who is both confident and somewhat boastful, showcasing his skills and popularity. The persona of Don Juan is celebrated, embodying the essence of charisma and virility often associated with the archetypal ladies’ man.

Symbolism of Don Juan

The lyrics of “Don Juan” are laden with symbolism that enhances the image of the protagonist. The “tango” itself symbolizes not just a dance but a lifestyle and cultural identity. The reference to “doble corte” represents a complex tango step, symbolizing the skill and finesse Don Juan possesses. Phrases like “Dios le dé, vida y salud” reflect a cultural invocation for blessings, symbolizing admiration and possibly envy from onlookers. The mention of “San Cristóbal” grounds Don Juan in a specific locale, adding to his mystique as a local legend.

Don Juan in historic Context

Composed in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1951, “Don Juan” sits within the rich tapestry of tango’s golden era. This period was marked by a strong cultural identity revolving around the tango, which was more than just music and dance; it was a way of life. During this time, Buenos Aires was a melting pot of influences and a burgeoning urban cultural hub. The character of Don Juan embodies the quintessential porteño spirit—bold, romantic, and somewhat rebellious, set against the backdrop of a city known for its passion and vibrancy.

Don Juan is a traditional character often depicted as a seductive and dashing man who wins over women with charm and confidence. In the world of tango, he represents the idealized tango dancer and the embodiment of both the allure and the ambiguity found within the dance and its cultural implications.