Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
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” translates to “The Pacifier” in English, referring metaphorically to something that soothes or consoles. The tango lyrics, set against the backdrop of Argentine culture in 1942, speak directly to those struggling with heartbreak or personal challenges. The title itself, symbolic of comfort, suggests the nature of the tango as a source of emotional relief. Antonio Polito’s lyrics encourage the protagonist to fight like a man (“Luchá con ansias de varón”) and not succumb to suffering, implying that through courage and camaraderie, one can overcome hardships.
The primary metaphor in this tango is the ‘El Chupete’ cabaret, symbolizing a place of escape where individuals can forget their sorrows and immerse themselves in joy and companionship. The repeated mention of “milonguear,” or dancing the milonga, highlights this escape into dance and nightlife as a therapeutic activity. Phrases like “La barra de ‘El Chupete'”, refer to the group frequenting this cabaret, representing solidarity and shared escape. The reference to being ‘slaves to the small drink’ (“Esclavos son del copetín”) and ‘the jar controls them’ (“La jarra los domina”), underscores the possibly escapist yet controlling nature of alcohol in seeking temporary solace.
The tango was recorded in October 1942, a period during which Argentina was marked by political and social upheaval preceding Juan Perón’s rise to power. This era was characterized by a mix of conservatism and the beginnings of significant social reforms. In such a context, themes of personal struggle, communal support, and nocturnal escapism resonate with a society coping with rapid changes and uncertainties. “El chupete,” as a song emerging from this period, likely served not only as a reflection of individual heartaches but also as a cultural artifact mirroring the collective search for relief and distraction through music and companionship.
Antonio Polito was a noted lyricist in the Argentine tango scene, remembered for his evocative and emotionally rich texts that often resonated deeply with the working classes of Argentina.