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.
Papas calientes is a Tango written by Antonio Polito and composed by Eduardo Arolas.
The title ‘Papas calientes,’ which translates to ‘Hot Potatoes’ in English, metaphorically alludes to difficult or troubling situations that are handed off from one person to another. The lyrics narrate the story of a young man grappling with heartache and the difficult paths one might take to overcome emotional pain. Advised by his peers, he is encouraged to fight his sorrows valiantly and join the lively local nightlife as a way to forget and move on. Each verse unfolds advice and communal support, emphasizing resilience and the seeking of joy amid distress.
The primary symbolism in ‘Papas calientes’ revolves around the milonga (social dance event) and nightlife, representing an escape and temporary solace from the troubles of life. The reference to “La barra de ‘El Chupete,’” likely a group of friends or a social circle at a local tavern or cabaret, symbolizes communal support and the collective effort to help a friend overcome personal grief. The phrase “Esclavos son del copetín” (slaves to the drink) highlights how people often become bound to temporary remedies for their sorrow. The ‘milonguear’ in the cabaret represents dancing off the pain, using the vibrancy of tango as a form of emotional release.
Created in 1967 in Argentina, a period marked by significant political and social changes, ‘Papas calientes’ reflects the local culture and the Argentinean way of dealing with life’s adversities through tango, nightlife, and communal gatherings. This era in Argentina was characterized by instability which can be felt through the song’s emphasis on seeking reprieve and communal support from life’s heavier moments. The tango thus not only serves as a narrative of personal struggle but also as a cultural reflection on the Argentine way of life, where tango often serves as both a literal and metaphorical dance around the issues of life.
Antonio Polito is known for his contributions to the world of Tango, capturing quintessential elements of Argentinian culture and emotion through his lyrics.