Shusheta (El aristócrata) by Enrique Cadícamo

Shusheta (El aristócrata) is a Tango written by Enrique Cadícamo and composed by Juan Carlos Cobián.

Story behind the Tango Shusheta (El aristócrata)

The lyrics of “Shusheta (El aristócrata)” paint a nostalgic portrait of a man from a bygone era. The character, commonly seen strolling along Calle Florida in Buenos Aires, embodies the image of an elegant, upper-class dandy with his spats, top hat, and cane. Through the reminiscence of this figure, Cadícamo explores themes of past glory, societal change, and the fading of an aristocratic era in Buenos Aires.

Symbolism of Shusheta (El aristócrata)

The song uses several symbols to evoke the grandeur of the past. Spats, a top hat, and the walking cane collectively symbolize the refined class status of the character, reflecting an era where appearance and social standing were paramount. The recurrent image of the character parading past the Jockey Club with a carnation in his buttonhole underscores his integration into high society.

The nostalgic tone enhances this image, with phrases like “Ah, times of the Petit Salón…” and “Ah, time of the Champagne Tango section of the ‘Armenonville’,” which refer to famous social venues of that time, suggesting a yearning for the vibrant social and cultural life of old Buenos Aires.

Shusheta (El aristócrata) in historic Context

Set in 1987 Argentina, “Shusheta (El aristócrata)” reflects on a much older period in Buenos Aires, likely the early 20th century — a prosperous time for Argentina when it was known as “the granary of the world.” The lyrical recall of locations like the Jockey Club and Palermo, along with the high-society gatherings, situates the song in a historic moment when Argentine society was characterized by both opulence and the sharp class distinctions typical of that era.

Enrique Cadícamo

Enrique Cadícamo was a prominent Argentine lyricist and poet, known for his pivotal contributions to the Tango genre.