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Perdón viejita

Perdón viejita is a Tango written by Osvaldo Fresedo and recorded by Osvaldo Fresedo in 1927. Osvaldo Fresedo has recorded Perdón viejita as an instrumental Tango.
“Perdón viejita,” meaning “Forgive me, dear old mother,” is a heartfelt plea wrapped in melancholic melodies. This piece captures the essence of regret, echoing the remorse and longing of a child seeking absolution from a mother’s enduring love. Through its poignant notes, it tells a story of familial bonds, forgiveness, and the timeless connection between a mother and child.

Tango

Style

Osvaldo Fresedo

Orchestra

Instrumental

Singer

José Saldías

Author

Osvaldo Fresedo

Composer

1927/5/26

Date

Instrumental
Instrumental
Osvaldo Fresedo
Osvaldo Fresedo

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Perdón viejita recorded by other Orchestras

Perdón viejita recorded by other Orchestras

Letra del Tango Perdón viejita

Yo estaba loco, fui un pobre hombre,
Yo la quería con devoción.
Vos me decías: “Tené cuidado…”
Yo enceguecí de pasión.
Aquella noche junté mis pilchas
y sin decirte tampoco adiós,
te abandonaba, viejita mía,
para cambiarte por ese amor

¡Perdón, viejita!
Única amiga
que me reciba
tu bendición.
Y me arrodillo
beso tus manos,
y una y mil veces,
pido perdón.

Tuve el castigo, porque cobarde
me dejó sola con su querer…
Y, desde entonces, con tu memoria
mi soledad acompañé.
Hoy he vuelto mamá, pa’ regalarte
dulces sonrisas en tu vejez…
Serás abuela, voy a pagarte
toda la pena que te causé.

English lyrics of the Tango "Perdón viejita"

I was crazy, just a poor man,
I loved her with devotion.
You would tell me, “Be careful…”
I was blinded by passion.
That night I gathered my things
and without even saying goodbye,
I left you, my dear old lady,
to exchange you for that love.

Forgive me, old lady!
Only friend,
may your blessing
receive me.
And I kneel,
kissing your hands,
again and again,
I ask for forgiveness.

I was punished, for cowardice
she left me alone with her love…
And since then, with your memory
I have kept my loneliness company.
Today I return, mom, to bring you
sweet smiles in your old age…
You’ll be a grandmother, I’ll repay you
for all the pain I caused you.

Perdón viejita by José Saldías

Perdón viejita is a Tango written by José Saldías and composed by Osvaldo Fresedo.



Story behind the Tango Perdón viejita

“Perdón viejita” translates to “Sorry, little old lady” in English. This poignant tango tells a story of remorse and reconciliation. The narrator acknowledges his past foolishness, driven by blind passion for another, which led him to abandon his mother (“viejita”) without a goodbye. He left her while blinded by love that ultimately proved unfaithful. As he returns, broken and repentant, he seeks forgiveness from his mother, recognizing her perpetual support and unconditional love.



Symbolism of Perdón viejita

The tango uses several symbolic elements to enhance its emotional depth. “Yo estaba loco” (I was crazy) suggests a state of irrationality that love can induce, symbolizing how passion can cloud judgment. The act of kneeling and kissing the mother’s hands is a powerful gesture of atonement and respect, highlighting the cultural significance of filial piety in Argentine society. Additionally, the transformation of the narrator from a heedless lover to a caring son symbolizes personal growth and the realization of what truly matters — family and motherly love.



Perdón viejita in historic Context

The tango was recorded in 1927, a period in Argentina marked by significant social changes and the emergence of tango as a popular urban phenomenon reflecting the complexities of city life and relationships. This song, like many tangos from this era, captures the emotional struggles and societal expectations of individuals. The emotional appeal of seeking forgiveness from a parental figure could resonate widely, reflecting the values and sentiments of Argentine audiences in the early 20th century, where respect for family elders was highly cherished.



José Saldías

José Saldías was an influential figure in the world of tango, known for capturing deep emotional narratives in his lyrics.