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 trece is a Tango written by Angel Gregorio Villoldo and composed by Albérico Spátola.
The lyrics of “El trece” traverse a mesmerizing journey through the emotional prowess and allure of dancing a Tango. Angel Gregorio Villoldo, the lyricist, invites listeners into a world where the slow, rhythmic movement of the dance becomes a conduit for experiencing profound emotions and dreams. The opening exclamation, “¡Qué lindo es bailar un tango dormilón!”—translating roughly to “How beautiful it is to dance a dreamy tango!”—encapsulates the sheer joy and enchantment derived from this art form. As the song progresses, it delves deeper into the sensations of bliss and heartache intertwined with the dance’s execution.
“El trece” symbolizes the transformative power of the tango, not merely as a dance but as an intimate emotional experience. The repeated mention of the heart’s vibrations and the soul-stirring effects of the dance hint at tango’s capability to mirror deep-seated feelings and connections. “Y el grato vaivén de esta danza me hace muy feliz”— “And the pleasant swinging of this dance makes me very happy” underscores the serene yet intoxicating effect this dance holds over its participants, while the dance number, “El trece,” suggests a particular pattern or move in tango that brings about unparalleled joy and satisfaction to the dancer.
Recorded in 1938 in Argentina, “El trece” arrives during a time when tango was not only a national treasure but also an international sensation. The 1930s were a period of great transformation culturally and politically, both in Argentina and worldwide. During this era, tango lyrics often encapsulated the common people’s sentiments, dramas, and joys—acting as reflective social commentary woven through melodious and evocative performances. Therefore, “El trece” might have served as a reflection on personal experiences and collective identity through the universal language of dance.
Angel Gregorio Villoldo was an influential figure in the history of Tango, known as one of its early pioneers. His works significantly contributed to the genre’s foundations in Argentina.