Pero hay una melena by José Bohr

Pero hay una melena is a Tango written by José Bohr and composed by José Bohr.

Story behind the Tango Pero hay una melena

The lyrics of “Pero hay una melena” translate to “But there is a mane” in English, capturing a nuanced perspective on fashion trends and gender norms in mid-20th century Argentina. Through vivid descriptions, Bohr contrasts traditional feminine attributes with the modern styles of the era, particularly focusing on women cutting their hair short, which was a notable trend in the 1950s. The song oscillates between disapproval of the new fashion, seeing it as a loss of feminine essence, and an affectionate acknowledgment of a specific woman whose short hair (“melenita de oro”) is dearly cherished.

Symbolism of Pero hay una melena

In this tango, the ‘mane’ or ‘melena’ is a recurring symbol representing women’s haircuts that emulate traditionally masculine styles. This symbolism extends to a broader commentary on shifting gender expressions. The phrase “Pero hay una melena, melenita de oro” or “But there is a mane, a little golden mane,” illustrates a specific exception to the narrator’s general disdain for this trend, suggesting that personal affection can challenge broader societal judgments. The ‘golden mane’ not only symbolizes beauty but perhaps a treasured uniqueness in a loved one that surpasses societal norms.

Pero hay una melena in historic Context

Released in 1953, a time when gender roles and expressions were undergoing significant shifts in Argentina and globally, “Pero hay una melena” reflects societal reactions to these changes. After World War II, there was a surge in women’s independence and visibility in public life, often accompanied by fashion and aesthetic choices that challenged traditional norms. The reference to “Florida” street in Buenos Aires suggests a setting buzzing with modern styles and social interactions, possibly indicating the cosmopolitan nature of these changes. Mentioning “Cristóbal Colón” humorously critiques how radical the fashion seemed, likening a modern woman to an historical male figure, thus highlighting the gender role confusion perceived by some during that era.

José Bohr

José Bohr was a multifaceted artist, known not only for his contributions to tango but also in film and music production in Latin America.