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El Cachafaz

El Cachafaz is a Tango written by Manuel Aróztegui and recorded by Carlos di Sarli in 1954. Carlos di Sarli has recorded El Cachafaz as an instrumental Tango.
“El Cachafaz,” translating to “The Rascal” in English, evokes the spirited essence of a mischievous soul who dances through life with bold grace. This piece captures the defiant charm and quicksilver moves of one who lives on the edge, challenging convention with every playful turn. It’s a celebration of audacity, where rhythm and rebellion intertwine in an irresistible embrace.

Tango

Style

Carlos di Sarli

Orchestra

Instrumental

Singer

Ángel Villoldo

Author

Manuel Aróztegui

Composer

1954/1/26

Date

Instrumental
Instrumental
Carlos di Sarli
Carlos di Sarli

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El Cachafaz recorded by other Orchestras

El Cachafaz recorded by other Orchestras

Letra del Tango El Cachafaz

El cachafaz es un tipo
de vestir muy elegante
y en su presencia arrogante
se destaca un gran señor.
El cachafaz, donde quiera,
lo han de encontrar muy tranquilo
y si saca algún filo
se convierte en picaflor.

El cachafaz, bien lo saben,
que es famoso bailarín
y anda en busca de un festín
para así, florearse más.
El cachafaz cae a un baile
recelan los prometidos,
y tiemblan los maridos
cuando cae el cachafaz.

El cachafaz, cuando cae a un bailecito
se larga; pero muy de parada
y no respeta ni a casada;
y si es soltera, mejor.
Con mil promesas de ternura
les oferta, como todos, un mundo de grandezas
y nadie sabe que la pieza no ha pagado
y anda en busca afligido, el acreedor.

English lyrics of the Tango "El Cachafaz"

The libertine is a guy
dressing very elegantly
and in his arrogant presence
he stands out like a great gentleman.
The libertine, wherever he is,
is to be found quite calm,
and if he takes advantage,
he turns into a flirt.

The libertine, well it’s known,
is a famous dancer
and he seeks celebration
to strut even more.
The libertine arrives at a dance
making the betrothed uneasy,
and husbands tremble
when the libertine appears.

The libertine, when he crashes a little dance,
comes insouciant; but quite posh,
and respects not even the wedded;
and if she’s single, all the better.
With a thousand promises of tenderness
he offers, like all, a world of grandeur
and no one knows he hasn’t paid for the room,
and the creditor is anxiously looking.

El Cachafaz by Manuel Aróztegui

El Cachafaz is a Tango written by and composed by Manuel Aróztegui.

Story behind the Tango El Cachafaz

The tango “El Cachafaz” narrates the story of a charismatic yet elusive character known as “El Cachafaz,” who epitomizes elegance and arrogance. He is portrayed as a confident individual who moves with ease through social gatherings, garnering attention and admiration wherever he goes. The narrative unfolds around his ventures into dances, where his presence causes both excitement and concern among those present, especially married men and committed partners. “El Cachafaz” is described as a suave seducer, offering empty promises of grandeur and affection, while simultaneously evading financial responsibilities.

Symbolism of El Cachafaz

The lyrics are rich in symbolism, particularly in how “El Cachafaz” embodies both the allure and pitfalls of charm and superficial elegance. The “arrogant presence” symbolizes not only personal confidence but also the societal facade that often hides deeper flaws. The repeated reference to his prowess as a “famous dancer” alludes to his ability to navigate and manipulate social situations. Key phrases like “mil promesas de ternura” (a thousand promises of tenderness) highlight the theme of deception, suggesting that the allure of “El Cachafaz” is built on unfulfilled promises and pretense.

El Cachafaz in historic Context

Set in 1954 Buenos Aires, the tango reflects a post-war Argentina grappling with economic and social changes. The character of “El Cachafaz” can be seen as a metaphor for a society in flux, where appearances could be deceiving and traditional norms were being challenged. The dance halls and social gatherings were central to cultural life in Buenos Aires, serving as places where societal roles and expectations were both reinforced and subverted. This context helps shape the message of the tango, where the charm and guile of “El Cachafaz” can be seen as a reflection of a vibrant yet turbulent urban culture.

Overview of Manuel Aróztegui

Manuel Aróztegui was a distinguished composer known for his contributions to the rich tapestry of Argentine tango music, capturing the spirit of Buenos Aires in his works.