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.
Que te pasa Buenos Aires is a Tango written by Juan José Correia and composed by Eduardo Cortti.
“Que te pasa Buenos Aires” translates in English to “What’s wrong with you, Buenos Aires?” The lyrics express the author’s displeasure and heartache upon returning to Buenos Aires after twenty years, only to find it drastically changed and lacking the charm he once remembered. The song addresses the city directly, questioning the transformations that have degraded its cultural heritage, particularly its tango roots. The desolation felt by the author is palpable as he notes the replacement of traditional tango locales with modern establishments like pizzerias, signifying a loss of Argentine cultural identity.
The lyrics utilize vivid symbolism and heartfelt queries to emphasize the city’s stark transformation. The change from tango clubs to pizzerias not only symbolizes commercialization but perhaps also cultural dilution, which the author laments. The mention of “Carlitos” refers to Carlos Gardel, an iconic figure in Tango history, suggesting how dismayed Gardel would have been with these changes. The references to palpable locations and tango culture serve as a poignant reminder of what the city has lost. Phrases like “de lo bueno no hay ni un rastro” (there is not a trace of the good left) underscore the deep sense of loss and nostalgia for a city that once was.
The tango was recorded in 1956, a period marked by significant political and social changes in Argentina. This era saw rapid urbanization and modernization, which often led to cultural shifts or loss. Buenos Aires, being the capital, was at the heart of these transformations. “Que te pasa Buenos Aires” captures the conflict between tradition and progress, reflecting the broader societal tensions of the mid-20th century Argentina. Juan José Correia uses the song to critique these changes and voice a common sentiment of disappointment among those who felt disconnected from the new face of their city.
Juan José Correia was an Argentine lyricist known for his contributions to the genre of Tango, capturing the essence of Buenos Aires’ life and culture through his poignant lyrics.