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.
Sarampion is a Tango written by Raúl Hormaza and composed by Eladio Blanco.
The lyrics of “Sarampion” capture a playful and somewhat satirical dialogue between the narrator and a woman named Filomena. The tone is humorous and light-hearted, using a common scenario of romantic pursuit to explore themes of persistence and affection. The narrator humorously laments the physical toll of trekking back and forth from Filomena’s house to his workplace, humorously noting how his shoes are wearing thin and he’s becoming as frail as paper. His pleadings and confessions of love are intertwined with common colloquial language, painting a vivid picture of a youthful romantic endeavor in mid-20th century Argentina.
The title “Sarampion,” which translates to “Measles” in English, symbolizes an affliction or an unavoidable annoyance, possibly mirroring the narrator’s feelings towards his unrequited love. The use of everyday language and local slang like “pulenta,” “colimba,” and references to “San Telmo” and “plaza Constitución” enrich the cultural texture of the piece and help to ground it in a specific social and geographical context. These elements signify a relatable and down-to-earth narrative, making the themes of love, frustration, and social identity more poignant.
Recorded in Argentina in 1952, “Sarampion” emerged in a period marked by political instability and the rising Peronism movement that greatly influenced Argentine society and culture. This era also saw the Tango evolve as a form of expression that included not only the voice of the upper classes but also the working classes. The lyrics’ focus on common people’s love and struggles reflects this shift toward a more inclusive representation of Argentine identities. The playful jabs at economic hardship, like worn-out shoes and work troubles, subtly draw attention to the broader economic conditions of the time.
Raúl Hormaza was an Argentine lyricist known for his contributions to Tango with a characteristic blend of humor and poignancy.