El mayoral by Joaquín Gómez Bas

El mayoral is a Tango written by Joaquín Gómez Bas and composed by José Vázquez Vigo.

Story behind the Tango El mayoral

“El mayoral” portrays a vibrant scene from the arrabals (suburbs) where the central figure, a coachman, or ‘mayoral’ in Spanish, commands his horses, named “Alazán” and “moreno”, with a distinct echo of a cornet that breaks the suburban calm. The depiction of the mayoral with his horse-drawn tram resonates with the sounds of urban life, reflecting both the physical landscape of suburban Buenos Aires and the emotional landscape of those who reside there.

Symbolism of El mayoral

The imagery of “El mayoral” is rich with symbolism. The call of the mayoral’s cornet not only announces his presence but also serves as a metaphorical “clamor” of suffering and pain from past betrayals. The “roja flor” (red flower) tucked in his hair “se oculta en negro mechón,” symbolizing a dash of vibrant life hidden within dark sorrow, analogous to treacherous blood solidified into mourning (‘crespón’). This poignantly underscores themes of hidden pain and the personal anguish carried beneath daily appearances.

El mayoral in Historic Context

Created in post-war 1946, “El mayoral” reflects a period of significant social and economic changes in Argentina. The pivot towards suburban expansion and urbanization is mirrored in the tango’s setting and characters. The figure of the mayoral and his horse-drawn tram represents an echo from an older Buenos Aires, contending with the metals and machines of the burgeoning modern city. The historical pivot is emotively tied to personal histories of sorrow and resilience, echoed through the mayoral’s heartrending call.

Joaquín Gómez Bas

Joaquín Gómez Bas was a prolific Argentine writer, known for his tango lyrics that vividly capture both the spirit and the struggle of early 20th-century Buenos Aires.