Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ

Don Juan

Don Juan is a Tango written by Ernesto Ponzio and recorded by José Basso in 1955. José Basso has recorded Don Juan as an instrumental Tango.
“Don Juan,” known in English as “Sir John,” is a name that echoes with the allure of a legendary lover and a master of seduction. It evokes tales of charm and audacity, weaving enchantment as if in a sultry dance. In each note, you hear whispers of adventure and the relentless pursuit of passion, capturing the essence of an eternal romantic rebel.

Tango

Style

José Basso

Orchestra

Instrumental

Singer

Ricardo Podesta

Author

Ernesto Ponzio

Composer

1955/4/19

Date

Instrumental
Instrumental
José Basso
José Basso

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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 skilled
that when I perform a double cut
news travels North,
if I am in the South.
And to dance the Yuyeta
if I dress in style
everyone tells me,
God give you, God give you life and health.

Hold on, hey, hold on.
Let the piano continue, hey,
realize it yourself
and then you’ll say
if with this tough guy
they can in the North
hold on hey, what a cut,
hold on, hey, hold on.

There’s no theater unknown to me
since I’m even somewhat of an artist
and then I have a sight
that some say makes me a light.
And the shape of my body
tailored to my outfit
makes me a beloved lad,
I swear, I swear by this cross.

I’m the tough guy of the neighborhood,
ask anyone.
This isn’t the first time
they will know me.
I live in San Cristóbal,
they call me Don Juan Cabello,
note it down on your neck
and there it goes, and there it goes, that’s how they like to see me.

Don Juan by Ricardo Podesta

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

Story behind the Tango Don Juan

The lyrics of “Don Juan” elucidate the tale of a distinguished man, known for his prowess in the tango dance. His skills are so profound that people from all directions hear of his performances, whether he is in the South or the North. His popularity is evident not only in dance but also his sharp dress sense, contributing to his beloved status within the community. The character’s confidence and local fame culminate in his nickname, given by his neighborhood: Don Juan Cabello.

Symbolism of Don Juan

The symbolic representation of “Don Juan” in the tango encapsulates the ideal of a performer’s life merging with personal identity. Phrases like “corre la voz por el Norte, si es que me encuentro en el Sud” suggest an omnipresent reputation that transcends geographical boundaries. The repeated counsel “Dios le dé, Dios le dé, vida y salud” reflects societal blessings for his vigor and health, underscoring the community’s admiration towards him. Additionally, the imagery of “arreglada a mi vestido” symbolizes how his appearance is carefully crafted to maintain his cherished image among peers.

Don Juan in Historic Context

Set in the bustling cultural backdrop of Argentina in 1955, “Don Juan” captures a period rich in artistic expression, particularly in the realm of tango. This period echoed a strong communal bond and a shared appreciation for local talents in neighborhoods like San Cristóbal in Buenos Aires, where the persona lives. The Tango, deeply embedded in Argentine culture, serves as a social commentary and a personal expression, capturing the essence of the local ethos and the vivacity of its people during the mid-1950s.

Ricardo Podesta

Ricardo Podesta was a revered figure in Tango music, known for his compelling lyrical contributions to the genre.