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 que atrasó el reloj is a Tango written by Enrique Cadícamo and composed by Guillermo Barbieri.
The lyrics of “El que atrasó el reloj” paint a picture of frustration and exasperation with a character who is seen as lazy and unproductive. The speaker addresses this individual, urging him to get out of bed and criticizing his lack of contribution and drive. The colloquial and direct language reflects a domestic scene, likely between roommates or close acquaintances, highlighting a conflict rooted in disappointment and disillusionment with the other’s inaction.
The title itself, which translates as “He Who Delayed the Clock,” symbolizes the central character’s effect on others and on progress—hindering or delaying action or results. Phrases like “¡Andá a buscar otro guinche si tenés sueño pesao!” (Go find another crane if you’re so sleepy) use the crane as a metaphor for assistance, implying the person’s heavy, unmanageable burden. The mention of being out of “salvavidas” (lifebuoys) symbolizes a depletion of patience and resources, enhanced by the invocation of a sinking ship implied in “se acabó la sopa” (the soup is finished), a metaphor for resource depletion.
Recorded in 1965, this tango reflects the urban life of mid-20th century Argentina where the societal expectations were significantly centered around productivity and contributing to the household or community. This era in Argentina was marked by political instability and economic fluctuation, factors that magnified the importance of personal responsibility and reliability – traits that the character in the song seemingly lacks. The frustration and societal critique voiced could be a reflection of broader societal frustrations during this time period.
Enrique Cadícamo was a renowned Argentine lyricist and poet, known for his significant contributions to the Tango genre, often weaving intricate narratives filled with emotion and local color into his works.