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 trompito is a Tango written by Enrique Cadícamo and composed by Enrique Cadícamo.
El trompito, translating to “The Top” in English, is a vibrant narrative that transports listeners to the early days of Tango in the Mataderos neighborhood of Buenos Aires. This Tango, through its emotive lyrics, tells the story of a person who has been deeply entwined with Tango since their childhood. Guided by the bandoneon’s melodies, and grown amongst the rural wagon-drivers (“carreros”), the speaker captures the essence of Tango not just as a dance but as a part of their identity. The lyrics reflect a celebration of this cultural heritage, showing the speaker’s profound connection and mastery over the traditional dance steps of Tango.
The title itself, “El trompito”, symbolizes the constant, spinning motion of a top, akin to the fluid, intricate movements of a Tango dancer. This symbol is reflective of the narrator’s own life and identity—constantly revolving around Tango. Notable language choices such as “La sentada” and “La corrida de costao” are terms from Tango that denote specific steps, emphasizing the technical proficiency and the cultural depth the dancer brings into the play. These terms not only highlight his expertise but also serve as a bridge connecting the dance to the cultural atmosphere of traditional Argentine Tango.
Recorded in 1943, during a time when Argentina was marked by its political upheavals and a burgeoning national identity, “El trompito” serves as a cultural reaffirm and celebration of Argentine roots through the universal language of dance. Tango, a dance entwined deeply with Argentine culture, was a means for people to express their emotions, hardships, and joy. By 1943, Tango had evolved into a symbol of national pride, and Cadícamo’s lyrics reflect this resurgence of interest in preserving and glorifying native cultural expressions during a time of global and local uncertainties.
Enrique Cadícamo was a prominent Argentine poet and tango lyricist, whose works have significantly shaped the world of Tango music and dance.