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 choclo is a Tango written by Angel Villoldo and composed by Angel Villoldo.
“El choclo” refers to corn but is colloquially understood in Argentine Spanish as the “top of the crop,” symbolizing the best or a cherished item. The lyricist, reflecting on older times through the lens of tango, captures a nostalgia that intertwines personal histories with the evolution of this dance form. This tango delves into the theme of memory and longing, structured around the profound connection the narrator has with the music that marked significant moments of his past.
The milonga here represents more than a dance; it symbolizes a portal to bygone days, offering solace amidst sorrows. The repeated nostalgic phrases invite listeners into a shared space of reflection. Key phrases like “vieja milonga,” suggesting the timeless value of tango, and “que en mi horas de tristeza,” indicating its comforting role, enrich the emotive depth of the piece. The imagery of the soul shrinking “poco a poco” conveys a gradual surrender to the overwhelming emotions the music evokes, coloring the tango with tones of melancholic beauty and introspection.
Although attributed to 1987 in this inquiry, “El choclo” substantially precedes that date, with its origins actually tracing back to the early 1900s. This discrepancy highlights the song’s enduring appeal and its profound roots in Argentine culture. The historic context when tango mirrored societal transformations in Argentina is crucial. As tango moved from the margin to the mainstream, it gathered symbolic meanings, shaping national identity. The references to “aquellos años” (those years) and “mi sienes” (my temples) not only ground the speaker’s experience in personal history but also mirror the cultural shifts witnessed by society.
Angel Villoldo was an Argentine musician often dubbed the “father of tango.” He played a pivotal role in the genre’s early development and popularization within Argentina.