Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
Style
Orchestra
Singer
Author
Composer
Date
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 llorón is a Tango written by Enrique Cadícamo and composed by Juan Maglio.
The lyrics of “El llorón” portray a narrative of a man who admits to being emotionally soft, particularly when it comes to wooing women. He suggests that tears can be a strategic tool in love, an expression to gain affection. His confession contrasts against the backdrop of his friends who censure him, calling him ‘llorón’ or crybaby, yet he persists in his emotional expression believing it to be an effective way to ‘win’ at love. This emotional vulnerability presented in the song is juxtaposed with his depiction as a successful lover, indicating a nuanced perspective on masculinity and emotional expression within romantic contexts.
In “El llorón,” tears symbolize a deeper emotional intelligence and strategy rather than mere weakness. The recurring chorus and response structure paint the protagonist as someone who has deeply internalized his role as ‘El llorón’ (the weeper), yet uses it to his advantage. “No hay una que se me resista” suggests his emotional tactics are effective, challenging traditional perceptions of masculinity. Moreover, his declaration of being a ‘Picaflor del Norte’ and comparing himself to a spinning top (‘trompo’) in the dance, enhances this image of a vibrant, playful figure, yet calculative and cunning in affairs of the heart.
Released in 1952, “El llorón” entered a post-war world where traditional roles and expectations were rapidly changing, particularly in urban Argentina. During this period, Tango music was evolving, reflecting more complex social realities and personal narratives. This song, by addressing emotional vulnerability, could be seen as a commentary on the changing dynamics of gender roles and relationships. By embracing his sensitivity, the protagonist of the song indirectly critiques and reshapes the machismo often prevalent in Latin American cultures, making an innovative statement on the evolving fabric of societal norms.
Enrique Cadícamo was a prolific Argentine lyricist and writer, known for his significant contributions to the Tango genre. His works often encapsulate deep emotional and social nuances, highlighting the complexities of everyday life and relationships.