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 niño Jacinto is a Tango written by Juan De La Huerta and composed by Oscar Rubens.
The lyrics of “El niño Jacinto” narrate the celebration surrounding the baptism of a young boy named Jacinto. The setting is vividly depicted with courtyards decorated with flags and lanterns, the air filled with the relentless rhythm of drums initiating a traditional candombe. The term candombe refers to a cultural dance and musical expression rooted in the African communities of Uruguay and Argentina. The presence of this dance in the celebration highlights the communal and traditional aspects of this significant life event, emphasizing the cultural blend inherent in the region.
The song employs several symbolic elements to enrich its narrative. The “tulumba, tulumba” phrase mimics the sound of the drums, which are central to the candombe celebration. This repetitive drumming sound symbolizes the heartbeat of the community and conveys a sense of ongoing life and connectivity. The imagery of the sleeping child waiting for the priest alludes to innocence and new beginnings, while his crying upon waking may symbolize the abrupt entrance into the spiritual community through the rite of baptism. The red bow (“moño colorado”) and ironed gown (“su bata planchá”) suggest a festive, respectful approach to the ceremony, highlighting cultural values of honor and celebration.
The year 1943 was a complex time in Argentina, characterized by political instability and the rise of Juan Domingo Perón. Within this turbulent historical context, “El niño Jacinto,” recorded on April 27, 1943, offers a slice of cultural continuity and celebration amidst societal changes. The incorporation of African-derived musical elements like candombe into popular Argentine music such as Tango speaks to the enduring influence of diverse immigrant groups in shaping national culture. This song serves not only as entertainment but also as a reflection of societal integration and cultural preservation during a time of change.
Juan De La Huerta was an Argentine Tango lyricist known for weaving vivid narratives that often highlighted cultural and social elements of Argentine life.