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” weaves a narrative of resilience and escapism through the medium of tango. The lyrics suggest a straightforward, yet profound theme: overcoming heartache and the pains of love through the camaraderie and revelry of friends (“la barra”). The phrase “Luchá con ansias de varón” (Fight with the eagerness of a man) underscores the idea of confronting one’s sorrows bravely and head-on. This message is juxtaposed with the solution provided by friends, urging that indulgence in festivities (“la farra”) can serve as a remedy for heartache.
The term “El chupete” itself is symbolic and crucial to understanding the deeper context of the lyrics. Translating literally to “The Pacifier” in English, it symbolizes something that soothes or calms. In the cultural context of the tango, “El Chupete” refers to a bar or gathering spot known for its vibrant atmosphere, effectively a place that pacifies the soul of those hurt by love. The repetitive mention of “La farra es el remedio para su mal” (The spree is the remedy for your pain), reinforces this symbolism of forgetting one’s miseries through distraction and revelry.
Recorded in 1955, “El Chupete” was released during a time when Argentina was undergoing significant political and social changes. The mid-50s were marked by economic struggle and political instability, following the fall of Juan Perón. In this light, the tango could be seen as reflecting a common yearning for an escape from harsh realities, seeking solace in the ephemeral joys of nightlife. The specific references to places like cabarets and the fervent scenes depicted serve as a reminder of the cultural hubs that were central to Argentine social life in those times.
Antonio Polito was an Argentine lyricist known for his contributions to the genre of tango, working with notable composers to create music that resonated within the dance halls of Buenos Aires and beyond.