Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
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.
Tabú is a Tango written by Justo Ricardo Thompson and composed by Tití Rossi.
The lyrics of “Tabú” depict a deep and tragic narrative centered around a figure named Mariquita. This character is described in a state of desolation and spiritual abandonment, epitomized by repeated calls to Mabú, presumably a deity, pleading for salvation. The lyrics convey a sense of inevitability and despair as Mariquita faces death, surrounded by darkness both literal and metaphorical, with her “sky-like eyes” dimmed without light. This narrative captures a haunting scenario of loss, hope, and a deep-seated belief in the supernatural powers for intervention.
The title “Tabú” itself, which translates to “Taboo” in English, hints at something forbidden or sacred, framing the song’s narrative within the realm of untouchable or cursed fates. Key phrases such as “Sus ojos de cielo Brillan sin luz,” symbolize a loss of soul or spirit, where once-vibrant eyes now reflect a lack of life. The recurring invocations of “Mabú… Mabú…!” serve as a desperate plea to a higher power, indicating a reliance on spiritual beliefs to alter fate. The dramatic offerings to Mabú through the burning of incense and other items underline the rituals and sacrifices made in attempts to change the dire circumstances facing Mariquita.
“Tabú” was written in the midst of World War II, a period marked by vast global suffering and uncertainty. While geographically distant, the war’s effects permeated global consciousness, influencing artistic expressions. In Argentina, where the tango was penned, a rich heritage of blending African, indigenous, and European influences often surfaced in music and dance, depicting themes of loss, nostalgia, and resistance against fate. This tango, created in 1943, fits within this cultural tapestry, offering both a reflection on personal tragedy and a broader commentary on the helplessness felt by many during turbulent times.
Justo Ricardo Thompson was a poet and lyricist known for his contributions to Argentine Tango music, crafting narratives that often mirrored societal sentiments and cultural heritage.