Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ

El Tigre Millán

El Tigre Millán is a Tango written by Francisco Canaro and recorded by Juan D’Arienzo in 1952. The Tango El Tigre Millán is written by Francisco Canaro, Juan D’Arienzo has recorded El Tigre Millán with the singer Alberto Echagüe.
“El Tigre Millán,” or “The Tiger Millán,” roars through the night with a fierce and untamed elegance. This piece embodies the spirit of a prowling feline, weaving a tale of strength and mystique that dances through shadowed streets. With every note, it captures the essence of a soul that is both wild and resilient, leaving an indelible mark.

Tango

Style

Juan D'Arienzo

Orchestra

Alberto Echagüe

Singer

Francisco Canaro

Author

Francisco Canaro

Composer

1952/11/12

Date

Alberto Echagüe
Alberto Echagüe
Juan D'Arienzo
Juan D’Arienzo

Discover Other Orchestras

Recommended

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 Tigre Millán recorded by other Orchestras

El Tigre Millán recorded by other Orchestras

Lyrics Translation of the Tango El Tigre Millán

This is the translation of the Tango “El Tigre Millán” from Spanish to English. The English lyrics of the Tango “El Tigre Millán” have been done with AI.

Letra del Tango El Tigre Millán

Picao de viruela, bastante morocho,

encrespao el pelo lo mismo que mota

un hondo barbijo a su cara rota,

le daba un aspecto de taita matón.

De carácter hosco, bien fornido y fuerte

afrontó el peligro cual bravo titán,

jamás tuvo miedo ni aún ante la muerte

porque era muy hombre ‘El Tigre Millán’



Pobre Tigre que una noche en Puente Alsina

dos cobardes lo mataron a traición.

Era guapo, de esos guapos más temidos

que la punta desgarrante de un facón.

Mala suerte, pobre Tigre, siempre tuvo

en cuestiones de escolazos y de amor.

Pues no era bien parecido

y fatalmente metido

con la mujer que adoró,

nunca fue correspondido

y ella al fin lo traicionó.



Cuentan que una noche, bramó como fiera

en un entrevero, que hasta hoy se comenta.

Repartiendo hachazos, ¡era una tormenta!

Mostró su coraje venciendo a un malón.

¡Parece mentira, que hombres de tu laya

mueran siempre en manos de un ruin cobardón!

¡Hoy la muchachada, Tigre, te recuerda

y aquella culpable llora su traición.

English lyrics of the Tango "El Tigre Millán"

Pockmarked from smallpox, quite dark-skinned,
his hair crimped just like fuzz,
a deep mask on his broken face,
gave him the look of a thug chieftain.

With a surly character, well-built and strong,
he faced danger like a brave titan,
he never feared, not even death,
because he was truly ‘El Tigre Millán.’

Poor Tiger, one night at Puente Alsina,
two cowards murdered him by betrayal.
He was brave, of those most feared,
like the ripping tip of a large knife.
Bad luck, poor Tiger, he always had
in matters of slashes and love.
For he was not good-looking
and fatally involved
with the woman he adored,
he was never reciprocated
and in the end, she betrayed him.

They say that one night, he roared like a beast
in a scuffle, still talked about today.
Dishing out axe blows, he was a storm!
He showed his courage by defeating a mob.
It seems incredible, that men of your caliber
always die by the hand of a wretched coward!
Today the young folks, Tiger, remember you
and that guilty woman mourns her betrayal.

El Tigre Millán by Francisco Canaro

El Tigre Millán is a Tango written by Francisco Canaro and composed by Francisco Canaro.



Story behind the Tango El Tigre Millán

“El Tigre Millán” narrates the tragic life and death of its titular character, a man notorious for his virulent masculinity and dauntless spirit. The tango portrays Millán as a rugged, physically imposing figure, never shying away from danger, equating him with a mythic titan. Despite his courageous demeanor, Millán’s life was marred by misfortune, especially in love, hinting at a deeper vulnerability beneath his tough exterior. The tragedy culminates in his betrayal and murder by two cowards, illustrating a poignant twist of fate for a man once feared and revered.



Symbolism of El Tigre Millán

The tiger, or “El Tigre” in Spanish, is a potent symbol of ferocity and fearlessness, aptly reflecting Millán’s formidable reputation. His untimely demise at the hands of traitors contrasts sharply with the tiger’s dominant nature, suggesting themes of heroism undercut by betrayal. The repeated references to facial disfigurements and his dark complexion (morocho) emphasize societal perceptions of ruggedness and otherness, which frame his interactions and ultimate downfall. “Mota” symbolizes the unkempt and fierce attributes, while “facón,” a large fighting knife, indicates the violent environment and the tools associated with his tragic end.



El Tigre Millán in historic Context

The tango was recorded in 1952, a period marked by political and social upheaval in Argentina, often reflected in the popular culture of the time. Tango, inherently dramatic and expressive, was a medium through which the collective Argentine conscience grappled with themes of machismo, honor, and tragic love. Puente Alsina, the site of Millán’s murder, is a significant historical landmark connecting the Buenos Aires neighborhoods, likely chosen to emphasize the local, gritty flavor of the narrative. This context enriches the song, providing layers of cultural resonance that echo the struggles and character of the Argentine people during that era.



Francisco Canaro

Francisco Canaro was a renowned Uruguayan-Argentine composer and director, known for his profound impact on the Tango genre.