Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ

El torito

El torito is a Milonga written by Ángel Villoldo and recorded by Armando Pontier in 1957. Armando Pontier has recorded El torito as an instrumental Milonga.
“El Torito,” meaning “The Little Bull” in English, evokes the essence of spirited dance and vibrant life. This piece captures the fiery grace and determination inherent in its namesake, embodying both power and playfulness. With every note, it tells a tale of tradition, strength, and an indomitable spirit eager to embrace the dance of life.

Milonga

Style

Armando Pontier

Orchestra

Instrumental

Singer

Ángel Villoldo

Author

Ángel Villoldo

Composer

1957/9/30

Date

Instrumental
Instrumental
Armando Pontier
Armando Pontier

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El torito recorded by other Orchestras

El torito recorded by other Orchestras

Letra del Milonga El torito

Aquí tienen a El Torito,

el criollo más compadrito

que ha pisao la población.

Donde quiera me hago ver

cuando llega la ocasión.

Pa’ la danza soy ladino,

y en cualquier baile argentino

donde yo me he presentao,

al mozo más bailarín

he dejao acobardao.



Cuando hago una sentadita

de aquéllas que yo sé hacer,

es el disloque, señores,

pues me tengo mucha fe.

Mi cuerpo es como un resorte

cuando me pongo a bailar,

y en todas partes el premio

a la fija sé ganar.



Yo tengo una morochita

que es muy pierna y comadrita

en el arte de bailar,

y tadavía no halló

quién la pueda aventajar.

Todo el mundo nos alaba

y somos la yunta brava

conocida por aquí,

y nadie se presentó

que nos pueda competir.



En los bailes nacionales

nadie nos puede igualar,

pues yo y mi prenda formamos

La pareja sin rival.

Lo mismo bailamos tango

que gato con relación,

la zamacueca, el cielito,

la huella y el pericón.

English lyrics of the Milonga "El torito"

Here they present El Torito,

the most dashing local man

who has stepped into this town.

I make sure I’m seen

whenever the occasion arises.

For dancing, I’m cunning,

and in any Argentine dance

where I have shown up,

I’ve left the best dancer

feeling intimidated.

When I perform a sitting move

like the ones I know how to do,

it’s a sensation, gentlemen,

for I have great faith in myself.

My body is like a spring

when I start to dance,

and in every event, the prize

I know how to win for sure.

I have a dark-haired girl

who is very skilled and friendly

in the art of dancing,

and still, she hasn’t found

anyone who can surpass her.

Everyone praises us

and we are the fierce pair

known around here,

and nobody has shown up

who can compete with us.

In the national dances

no one can match us,

for my sweetheart and I make

a couple without rival.

We dance the tango the same

as the gato with features,

the zamacueca, the cielito,

the huella, and the pericón.

El torito by Ángel Villoldo

El torito is a Tango written by Ángel Villoldo and composed by Ángel Villoldo.



Story behind the Tango El torito

The song “El Torito” vividly narrates the pride and prowess of a dancer who excels in traditional Argentine dances. Notably, the character elaborates on his unbeatable skills in various popular dances, painting an image of an indomitable figure in the local dance scene, admired by many and surpassed by none. The lyrics convey an atmosphere of festive competition and cultural celebration.



Symbolism of El torito

The title “El Torito” (The Little Bull), symbolically represents strength, agility, and dominance, traits clearly mirrored in the dancer’s own view of his dance abilities. His self-assurance and mastery in dance are akin to the bullish characteristics of power and control. Each dance mentioned symbolizes different facets of Argentine culture, amalgamating national identity with personal prowess.



El torito in historic Context

Recorded in 1957, a period rich in cultural expression in Argentina, “El Torito” serves as a narrative vessel that showcases the traditional dances prominent during this era. This historical period bolstered national pride and identity, intertwined heavily with the arts, particularly dance, which was a shared language among the people. This song, in particular, captures the essence of communal gathering and competition typical of Argentine social circles at this time.



Ángel Villoldo

Ángel Villoldo was an iconic figure in the Tango music scene, known for encapsulating the spirit and transformation of early 20th-century Argentine culture through his compositions.