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 morocha is a Tango written by Angel Villoldo and composed by Enrique Saborido.
“La morocha” lyrically embodies the spirit and identity of a confident Argentine woman, known locally as ‘La morocha’, which translates to ‘the brunette’ in English. The song celebrates her grace, popularity, and her intimate connection to the traditional Argentine culture. This woman is portrayed as the life force of her community, rejuvenating the hearts of the gauchos (Argentine cowboys) with her vitality and passionate singing. Her role isn’t just sociocultural but also deeply personal, as she provides a sense of home and love.
The symbolism in “La morocha” is rich and multi-layered; the ‘morocha’ herself is symbolic of the Argentine national identity—passionate, free-spirited, and untroubled. Phrases like “la que no siente pesares y alegre pasa la vida con sus cantares” portrays her as a figure who transcends sorrows with joy and music, symbolizing resilience and joyfulness. Additionally, her connection to nature and love of country are mirrored in her interactions with the landscape, such as her singing to the ‘pampero’ (a cold wind) which could symbolize the raw, unfettered spirit of Argentina itself.
While “La morocha” was marked as having been created in 1981, it is likely tied to an earlier period in Argentine history, potentially a century before. This was a time when Argentina was increasingly asserting its national identity. The references to rural life, gauchos, and traditional gatherings like singing under moonlit nights suggest a glorification of Argentina’s heritage and traditional values. This is placed within the broader context of the cultural renaissance and nativist movements that emphasized local customs over foreign influences. Thus, the song acts as a celebratory piece on the Argentine identity, with a proud display of local culture through the figure of ‘La morocha’.
Angel Villoldo, also known as the father of tango, was a pivotal figure in the origins of the tango genre, infusing it with lyrics that captured the essence of Buenos Aires’ lower-class life and culture in the early 20th century.