Frou frou (fru fru) by Homero Manzi, Héctor Monréal, Henri Blondeau

Frou frou (fru fru) is a Tango written by Homero Manzi, Héctor Monréal, Henri Blondeau and composed by Henri Jacques Chatau.

Story behind the Tango Frou frou (fru fru)

The tango “Frou frou” explores the tensions and dynamics between traditional gender roles and expressions, focusing particularly on the implications of women adopting more typically masculine attire and behaviors. The narrative voice reflects societal views on the changing visibility of women in public and private spheres, playing out against the backdrop of mild scandal and fascination these changes elicit.

Symbolism of Frou frou (fru fru)

The repeated phrase “frou-frou,” symbolizing the sound made by a woman’s rustling skirt, stands as a central motif in this piece. It signifies femininity and its traditional allure in contrast to the depiction of women in pants, which is portrayed as less appealing. This distinction underlines the cultural norm of the era that found femininity tied to specific kinds of dressing, suggesting deeper societal expectations of gender behaviors and appearances.

Frou frou (fru fru) in historic Context

Released in 1939, “Frou frou” reflects the atmosphere of an era where the roles and representations of genders were rigid but beginning to be questioned. The pre-World War II period saw significant changes in women’s visibility and roles, both in public life and in arts. The lyrics of the tango mirror this shift, observing and subtly critiquing the expectations placed upon women to dress and behave in a certain “femininely appealing” manner. At the time, such lyrical content would likely challenge more conservative views, capturing a society in transition.

Homero Manzi, Héctor Monréal, Henri Blondeau

Homero Manzi, Héctor Monréal, and Henri Blondeau are credited with the creation of “Frou frou.” Manzi is particularly notable for his prolific career as a lyricist in the tango genre, deeply entrenched in the cultural fabric of Argentina.