Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
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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 tarta is a Tango written by Emilio Fresedo and composed by José María Rizzuti.
“El tarta” captures the daily struggles and emotional turmoil of a man with a stutter, portrayed through the clever use of repetitive consonants that mimic his speech impediment. The lyrics are a heartfelt confession of his challenges and aspirations, revealing his self-awareness and resilience. Despite his speech issues, the protagonist expresses a strong desire for love and acceptance, emphasizing his honesty and noble intentions.
The key phrases “yo no tango tungo tengo,” and “es la luenga lunga lengua” highlight his speech difficulties, serving both as a literal explanation and a metaphor for the obstacles he faces in life. The repetition and alterations in word sounds create a rhythmic disruption akin to his daily experiences. The tango’s title, “El tarta” translates to “The Stutterer” in English, directly pointing to the central element of his identity that he confronts throughout the song.
Moreover, the mention of “jamón, jamás la pata” uses wordplay to inject humor and lightness into his situation, revealing his optimistic attitude in the face of adversity.
Recorded in 1933 in Argentina, “El tarta” emerged during a significant period in Argentine history, where tango music often reflected the social realities and struggles of its people. The era was marked by economic challenges and a growing sense of social awareness and cultural identity. The protagonist’s speech impediment and his narrative about societal acceptance can be seen as a metaphor for the larger societal issues faced by marginalized groups during this time. The lyrics do not mention specific locations or persons, focusing instead on the personal experience and inner world of the stutterer, making his story universal and timeless.
Emilio Fresedo was a prolific Argentine musician and bandoneon player, renowned for his contributions to the tango genre during its golden age.