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.
El Cachafaz is a Tango written by Ángel Villoldo and composed by Manuel Aróztegui.
“El Cachafaz” portrays a character known for his elegance and presence, generating awe wherever he goes. This tango narrates the exploits of a renowned dancer, whose presence in social gatherings and dances stirs jealousy among men and intrigue among women. The lyrics describe “El Cachafaz” as a suave individual who subtly manipulates social occasions to enhance his reputation, using his charms and skills in dance to navigate through the intricacies of social interactions.
The title “El Cachafaz” itself, which can be translated to “The Cheeky One” or “The Big Shot” in English, sets the tone for a character who is both audacious and admired. The repeated phrase “y si saca algún filo se convierte en picaflor” (and if he shows his edge, he becomes a flirt) symbolizes his ability to switch tactics, turning from a serious contender to a charming flirt as the situation demands. His actions at dances, where he disrupts the status quo, symbolize a deeper social commentary on the power dynamics and upheavals in Argentinean society during the tango era.
Written and recorded in 1937, during a vibrant era of tango in Argentina, “El Cachafaz” reflects the social and cultural dynamics of the time. Tango was not just a dance but a reflection of the complexities of Argentine society, encapsulating themes of love, jealousy, stratification, and personal prowess. This era marked a time of significant political and social changes in Argentina, and tango often served as a narrative tool to comment on such changes discreetly and artistically. The character of El Cachafaz, therefore, acts as a metaphor for navigating the shifting social landscapes of the time.
Ángel Villoldo was a crucial figure in the history of tango, often referred to as “The Father of Tango” for his significant contributions to the genre’s development and popularization.