Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
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Orchestra
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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 porteñito is a Tango written by Ángel Villoldo and composed by Ángel Villoldo.
“El Porteñito,” which translates to “The Little Man from Buenos Aires,” serves as both a literal description and a symbol of identity. Ángel Villoldo, through this character, epitomizes the archetypal Buenos Aires citizen of the early 20th century—the “compadrito,” which is a term denoting a flamboyant, confident city dweller, often associated with lower class, urban culture. The protagonist describes himself proudly as being unparalleled in dancing the tango, a dance deeply embedded in Argentine culture, emphasizing his skill and passion as part of his personal identity.
Villoldo’s use of the phrase “soy un taura del noventa” demonstrates a mix of nostalgia and pride. “Taura” is an old lunfardo slang for a tough, brave man, and “del noventa” refers to the 1890s, a transformative period in Argentine history characterized by rapid urbanization and cultural flourishing. The reference to “tango bravo,” which can be understood as a tough or intensely spirited tango, further underscores the strength and raw emotion intrinsic to both the dance and the dancer. These symbols collectively illustrate a narrative of identity that is not just personal but also deeply entwined with national pride and cultural heritage.
The tango was recorded in 1943, a time of significant political and social change in Argentina. This period surrounding World War II was marked by a strong surge in nationalism and a renewed focus on local culture, which is reflected in the fervent display of local identity and traditionalism in “El Porteñito.” The lyrics’ focus on the quintessential urban Argentine, the compadrito, during a time of global uncertainty, can be seen as both a reaffirmation of Argentine cultural values and an assertion of a distinct, unyielding identity amidst worldwide turmoil.
Ángel Villoldo was an influential figure in the history of tango, often referred to as the “father of tango” for his role in popularizing the genre both in Argentina and internationally.