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.
La cumparsita is a Tango written by Gerardo Matos Rodriguez and composed by Gerardo Matos Rodriguez.
“La cumparsita,” which translates to “The Little Parade,” is a tango filled with deep emotional currents, exploring themes of loss, redemption, and sorrow. The lyrics tell a tragic tale of a man reflecting on his past decisions and the consequences that followed. It intricately describes his journey from passion-driven actions to profound remorse as he confronts the death of his mother and his own impending death.
The lyrics of “La cumparsita” are rich with symbolism. The “cumparsa” or parade metaphorically depicts both a march toward death and a procession of the protagonist’s sorrows and regrets. The imagery of an individual dying “of sorrow” symbolizes the emotional and spiritual decay caused by his choices. The phrase “De miserias sin fin” or “Of endless miseries” sets a tone of inescapable sorrow, while the reference to his mother as a “su madrecita buena” or “his good little mother” highlights themes of familial devotion and guilt.
Created in 1927 by Gerardo Matos Rodriguez, “La cumparsita” emerged during a flourishing period for tango in Argentina, a time when the genre was deeply intertwined with the national identity. The setting of this piece in historical context reveals its deep connection with the urban landscape of Argentina, particularly the vibrant city life that often included tales of passion, betrayal, and familial bonds, common themes in tango lyrics that resonate with the struggles of ordinary people.
Gerardo Matos Rodriguez was a prominent Uruguayan composer and musician, celebrated for his definitive contributions to the tango genre. His works, notably “La cumparsita,” have left a lasting impact on Latin American music.