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.
Judas is a Tango written by Carmelo Santiago and composed by Carlos Marchisio.
The lyrics of “Judas” paint a poignant picture of betrayal and lost love, coupled with a deep sense of dignity and personal integrity. The persona in the song narrates their unwavering adoration for a significant other, whom they lost not through their faults but because of their incapability to provide material wealth (“Porque mi pobreza fue brutal”). This stark admission transitions into a tale of betrayal, where materialism (“un buen tapado de visón”) wins over sincerity and loyalty. The story culminates in a heavy-hearted farewell, where the persona bears the weight of their cross, symbolizing immense suffering and sacrifice.
In this tango, “Judas” symbolizes ultimate betrayal, reflecting the Biblical story of Judas Iscariot who betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. This reference not only deepens the narrative’s emotional impact but also universalizes the theme of treachery for personal gain. Phrases like “Te ibas tras la luz / Del Judas que a Jesús / Por oro lo vendió” juxtapose the spiritual betrayal with the personal, enhancing the gravity of the lover’s moral and emotional betrayal. The use of “Judas” here is a powerful metaphor that encapsulates the enormity of the hurt caused by the loved one’s actions.
The Tango was recorded in 1959, a period in Argentina marked by political and social upheavals, which might subtly inflect the themes of betrayal and dignity seen in “Judas.” This context coalesces with the personal narrative, possibly mirroring the broader societal betrayals experienced by individuals during turbulent times. The tangos of this era often reflected deep emotional and societal narratives, hence embedding “Judas” within this framework provides a deeper insight into the historical and emotional layers of the lyrics. Furthermore, Tango, traditionally embodying the dance of the downtrodden and the disenchanted, proves a fitting medium for such poignant expressions.
Carmelo Santiago was a significant Tango lyricist, known for his poignant and heartfelt lyrics that often delve into themes of love, betrayal, and societal reflections.