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Juanita (Jeannine)

Juanita (Jeannine) is a Vals written by Nathaniel Shilkret and recorded by Orquesta Típica Victor in 1929. Orquesta Típica Victor has recorded Juanita (Jeannine) as an instrumental Vals.
The piece “Juanita (Jeannine)” carries the warmth of its Spanish roots, where Juanita translates beautifully to Jeannine in English. This name whispers tales of vibrant evenings and heartfelt dances, evoking the image of a woman whose grace illuminates the room. In each note, her spirit, like an eternal muse, enchants and captivates all who listen.

Vals

Style

Orquesta Típica Victor

Orchestra

Instrumental

Singer

Enrique Cadícamo

Author

Nathaniel Shilkret

Composer

1929/3/7

Date

Instrumental
Instrumental
Orquesta Típica Victor
Orquesta Típica Victor

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Letra del Vals Juanita (Jeannine)

Sufro por ti mi dulce amor

Sufro por tus coqueteos,

Y eres tan cruel que no escuchás

De mis suspiros los ruegos…

El corazón yo te entrego

Y tus caricias me niegas.



Tu risa es un dulce violín

Que rima una canción de amor,

Yo sé que tus encantos son de Arlequín

Y sé que mi amargura es la de Pierrot.

El oro de tu bolsa va

Robándose tu juventud,

Juanita, tú no debes verme morir

Juanita, no me hagas sufrir.



Oro de amor he de brindar

Plata de líricos besos,

Para colmar tu vanidad

Arrancaré de los cielos…

La “Cruz del Sur” y en tu pecho

Colgaré como un collar.

English lyrics of the Vals "Juanita (Jeannine)"

I suffer for you, my sweet love,
I suffer because of your flirtations,
And you are so cruel that you don’t hear
The pleas of my sighs…
I give you my heart
And you deny me your caresses.

Your laughter is a sweet violin
That rhymes a love song,
I know that your charms are of Harlequin
And I know that my bitterness is that of Pierrot.
The gold in your purse goes
Stealing away your youth,
Juanita, you should not see me die
Juanita, do not make me suffer.

Gold of love I must offer
Silver of lyrical kisses,
To satisfy your vanity
I will pluck from the skies…
The “Southern Cross” and on your chest
I will hang it like a necklace.

Juanita (Jeannine) by Enrique Cadícamo

Juanita (Jeannine) is a Tango written by Enrique Cadícamo and composed by Nathaniel Shilkret.

Story behind the Tango Juanita (Jeannine)

The lyrics of “Juanita (Jeannine)” paint a vivid picture of unrequited love and emotional suffering. The speaker expresses deep sorrow due to the beloved’s indifference, symbolized by her cruel disregard for his pleas. Despite his profound devotion, symbolized by offering his heart, she denies him the affection he seeks. This heartache is compounded by the beloved’s superficiality, as her laughter appears charming yet hollow, reminiscent of a “sweet violin” without substance.


Symbolism of Juanita (Jeannine)

The references to “Arlequín” (Harlequin) and “Pierrot” in the lyrics represent contrasting themes of deception and tragedy within romantic dynamics. Harlequin, a character often depicted as cunning and vibrant, symbolizes the beloved’s enchanting yet deceitful allure. In contrast, Pierrot, a character known for his sadness and unrequited love, mirrors the speaker’s despair and innocence. The transformation of emotional pain into a poetic symbol is also evident through the metaphor of extracting the “Cruz del Sur” (Southern Cross) from the skies to adorn the beloved, illustrating a desperate attempt to fulfill her vain desires at a great personal and emotional cost.


Juanita (Jeannine) in Historic Context

Recorded in 1929, “Juanita (Jeannine)” emerged during a period of significant cultural and social transition in Argentina. The late 1920s and early 1930s in Argentina were marked by political instability and a rapidly modernizing society. The tango scene during this era often reflected themes of loss, nostalgia, and the struggles of the lower classes and immigrants. In this context, the narrative of the song could be seen as a reflection on the personal impacts of broader societal changes, where traditional values and romantic ideals clash with modernity and materialism.


Enrique Cadícamo

Enrique Cadícamo was an acclaimed Argentine lyricist and poet, known for his prolific contributions to the Tango genre.