Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
Style
Orchestra
Singer
Author
Composer
Date
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.
Manos heridas,” or “Wounded Hands,” as translated into English, is a poignant tribute to the toil and struggles of the working class. Eduardo Rey, through his lyrics, bestows a sacred aura on “blessed creating hands” that have borne wounds because of labor. The song highlights respect and deep appreciation towards the hard work typically overlooked or undervalued in society. Rey uses his lyrics to offer his modest verses as a token of gratitude to these hands, symbolizing the pure essence of laborious sacrifice.
The symbolism in “Manos heridas” is deeply embedded in the reverence for working hands. The hands, wounded from work, are not just a literal portrayal but a metaphor for life’s struggles and the human condition. Hands, often used as a symbol of creation and action, here represent the tireless, sometimes painful contributions to family and society. The phrase “las manos lujosas y a veces heridas” suggests a dichotomy between opulence and suffering, hinting at the sacrifices behind superficial success. The enduring presence of bread at the family table symbolizes stability and provision achieved through constant effort.
Recorded in 1961 Argentina, “Manos heridas” captures the sentiments and social climate of a period marked by political shifts and a complex social landscape. During this time, Argentina faced significant economic and political reforms which often led to labor disputes and a heightened awareness of workers’ rights and economic disparities. This tango, with its focus on the dignity of labor amidst hardship, mirrors the societal acknowledgment of the working class’s role in building the nation amidst ongoing societal struggles. The cultural reverence for tango music as an expression of deeper social and emotional undercurrents finds a powerful voice in Rey’s lyrics, resonating with a common man’s everyday trials and triumphs.
Eduardo Rey was a poignant lyricist known for capturing deep emotional and societal nuances within the concise format of tango lyrics. His work often reflected themes of love, sorrow, and societal commentary.