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.
Simpática muchachita is a Tango written by A. Capone and composed by Carlos Marcucci.
“Simpática muchachita,” which translates to “charming young girl,” portrays a vivid character sketch of a young woman with dreamy eyes, labeled as mischievous, pretty, flirtatious, and somewhat sentimental. The lyrics delve into her transformation from a shy girl, wary of her father’s discipline, to a confident young woman who embraces life’s pleasures, including dancing at milongas with her lover. The recurring motif of change and youthful rebellion reflects a common theme in tango lyrics – the transition from innocence to experience.
The tango uses symbolic language to deepen the portrayal of the young woman. Phrases like “apenas conservan el encanto de una reunión triunfal” suggest her lingering charm from past victories, potentially in love or social success. The metaphor of her cutting her hair “a la garçon,” a style associated with modernity and liberation in the 1920s, signals a bold step towards independence. This act of rebellion against traditional gender norms exemplifies her daring nature.
Recorded in 1928, a vibrant time in Argentina’s history, when Buenos Aires was a melting pot of cultural innovation and societal transformation. The prevalence of tango music reflected shifts in attitudes towards relationships, youth, and social norms. “Simpática muchachita” emerges from this backdrop as a celebration of youthful exuberance and a subtle critique of conservative familial structures. The setting in a working-class neighborhood, where community and nightlife were intertwined, forms an essential backdrop that influences the song’s narrative and tone.
Not much is detailed about A. Capone in the context of tango history; he is known primarily for this piece, in collaboration with composer Carlos Marcucci, who was a significant figure in Argentine tango during the early 20th century.