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 chupete is a Tango written by Antonio Polito and composed by Ricardo Gaudenzio.
“El Chupete” reveals a poignant narrative rooted in the ubiquitous struggles of the human heart. Antonio Polito captures the essence of communal support and the escapism found in nightlife when grappling with personal despair and emotional heartbreak. The protagonist is urged to fight like a man against the pain inflicted by abandonment in love, finding solace in the companionship and vibrancy of the group dynamic at a local cabaret known as “El Chupete”. This contrasts the loneliness of his suffering with the collective joy and obliteration of sorrow through social interaction and revelry.
The title “El Chupete,” which translates to “The Pacifier” in English, is emblematic in its denotation of comfort and distraction from distress. The cabaret itself becomes a symbol of relief where one can forget life’s troubles through the hedonistic pleasures of drink and dance. Phrases such as “Siempre será su berretín / Al recordar su amor” underlie a perpetual obsession or yearning entwined with memories of lost love, indicating how places like “El Chupete” serve both as a salve and a sweet torment, sustaining the pain while offering a temporary escape.
Written in 1942 Argentina, “El Chupete” reflects a time of immense global and national tensions during World War II. In this era, tango poetry often grappled with themes of loss, nostalgia, and escapism, providing a counter-narrative to the prevailing societal challenges. The cabaret acts as a microcosm for Argentina itself—a refuge where people could momentarily disengage from the harsh external realities. The reference to “milonguear,” meaning to tango dance in local slang, and the communal act of drinking (“Esclavos son del copetín”), underscores a collective attempt to maintain cultural identity and personal joy amidst broader chaos.
Antonio Polito was an Argentine lyricist noted for his contributions to the tango genre. His works often encapsulate themes of love, sorrow, and resilience.