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.
Mamá, yo quiero un novio is a Tango written by Roberto Fontaina and composed by Ramón Collazo.
The tango “Mamá, yo quiero un novio” reflects a young woman’s yearning for a traditional, archetypal tango man, countering the then-modern, refined men she encounters. She expresses a clear preference for a man embodying the authentic “milonguero” spirit—a rugged, confident partner who values the essence of the tango culture over superficial appearances like gomina (hair gel) or English tobacco. This song acts as a narrative of her criteria and determination in seeking a genuine connection that celebrates her cultural roots.
This tango employs rich symbolism to contrast traditional Argentine virtues with modern affectations. The “milonguero, guapo y compadrón” symbolizes authenticity and cultural fidelity, while the disdain for “gomina” and “tabaco inglés” highlights a rejection of foreign influences and superficiality. The evocative imagery of a man who “al bailar se arrugue como un bandoneón” (wrinkles like a bandoneon when dancing) spotlights the deep, intrinsic connection to the dance and music, suggesting that true passion and cultural identity are inextricably intertwined.
Created in 1964, a period of significant cultural and social evolution globally, “Mamá, yo quiero un novio” emerges as a nostalgic invocation of traditional values amidst rapid modernization. Argentina during this time was marked by political upheaval and changes in social norms, and this song serves as a clinging to cultural identity through the embrace of tango—a cornerstone of Argentine cultural expression—with its traditional characters and narratives providing a grounding, unifying force among the populace.
Roberto Fontaina was a prominent lyricist in Argentine tango, known for capturing the essence of the local culture and everyday experiences in his work.