Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
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.
Once y uno is a Tango written by and composed by José Basso.
The lyrics of “Once y uno” narrate a poignant scene in a bar, where the speaker encounters a former lover who is drinking champagne, seemingly merry yet internally devastated. This encounter provokes a reflection on past love and the inevitable parting of ways. The narrative unfolds in a bar setting, hinting at themes of escapism through alcohol and the pain of seeing a loved one in despair. The emotions captured are a blend of nostalgia, sadness, and a deep sense of resignation towards the changes life brings.
In “Once y uno,” key phrases such as “loca, reías por no llorar” (crazy, you laughed so as not to cry) and “tres cosas lleva mi alma herida: amor… pesar… dolor…” (three things carry my wounded soul: love… sorrow… pain…) poignantly illustrate the central themes. The laughter to mask tears symbolizes the way people often disguise their true feelings of hurt with superficial happiness. Champagne, usually associated with celebration, contrasts with the inner turmoil of the characters, emphasizing the depth of their concealed agony. The repeated mention of the eyes with “un eléctrico ardor” (an electric fervor) suggests the intense, lingering emotions still present, despite the outward appearance of moving on.
Written and recorded in 1952 in Argentina, “Once y uno” reflects the cultural and social context of its time, a period marked by political instability and evolving social norms in the country. The tango, often serving as a canvas to depict personal struggles against the backdrop of broader societal issues, uses the personal tale of lost love to mirror the sense of collective loss felt by many during this era. It was a time where individual and societal grief intertwined, reflected in the lyric’s exploration of personal sorrow and existential resignation.
José Basso was a renowned Argentine tango musician and composer, famous for his profound contributions to the tango genre with his distinctive style and deep emotional engagement.