Qué hacés qué hacés by Jesús Fernández Blanco

Qué hacés qué hacés is a Tango written by Jesús Fernández Blanco and composed by José Di Clemente.

Story behind the Tango Qué hacés qué hacés

The lyrics of “Qué hacés qué hacés” paint a picture of a character who has suddenly changed, abandoning old friends and adopting pretentious behaviors after possibly coming into some money. The narrative voice in the tango confronts this character, questioning their newfound haughtiness and detachment from their humble origins. The tango humorously critiques this character’s transformation, highlighting the shallow nature of their social ascension. The repeated phrase “Qué hacés qué hacés,” translated as “What are you doing, what are you doing,” serves as a recurring question that emphasizes disbelief and curiosity about the character’s changed ways.

Symbolism of Qué hacés qué hacés

The lyrics of the tango use symbolic language to highlight the tension between authenticity and pretense. References to changing one’s name, wearing fancy clothes (“un gil a cuadros empilchao”), and even painting one’s nails signify a departure from authenticity. The character’s rejection of their roots, symbolized by shifting from saying “chau” to “good night” and referring to girls as “mademoiselles,” underscores a superficial adoption of foreign customs to project an elevated social status. This use of language and symbolism critically portrays the pitfalls of forsaking one’s true identity for superficial gains.

Qué hacés qué hacés in historic context

“Qué hacés qué hacés” was written and recorded in Argentina in 1933, a period marked by significant social and political changes. The early 1930s were turbulent, with the country facing economic difficulties that starkly contrasted with the personal narrative of sudden wealth in the song. This backdrop makes the tango’s ridicule of social climbing particularly poignant, serving as a commentary on the broader societal obsession with wealth and status during hard times. The tango, a dance intertwined with the working-class culture of Buenos Aires, often included themes of everyday life and personal dramas, making “Qué hacés qué hacés” a reflective piece on societal values of the time.

Jesús Fernández Blanco

Jesús Fernández Blanco was a notable tango lyricist known for his poignant and sometimes humorous take on personal and social themes.