Tango argentino by Alfredo Bigeschi

Tango argentino is a Tango written by Alfredo Bigeschi and composed by Juan Maglio.

Story behind Tango argentino

Tango Argentino emerges from the heart of Buenos Aires’s impoverished neighborhoods, known as ‘arrabales’. The lyrics depict the tango as a personified, struggling entity born amidst poverty and raised among thieves and lowlifes, reflecting the challenging lives of those in the outskirts of the city during the early 20th century. The “taita de lengue” symbolizes a figure of guidance in this rough environment while his “novia primera” dressed in simple percal cloth, further underlines Tango’s humble origins. The narrative progresses with Tango earning the love of the local youth, painting a vivid picture of community and belonging, which are pivotal elements in the cultural history of tango.

Symbolism in Tango argentino

The song uses strong, culturally rich symbols to deepen its emotional appeal. Descriptors like “hijo malevo” (malicious son) and “tristón” (gloomy) accentuate the struggle and melancholy inherent in tango’s rhythm and lyrics. The reference to tango’s “baptism” and naming a “taita ladrón” (thief godfather) as its godparent alludes to an indoctrination into a life of hardship. The repeated exclamation “Tango argentino!” highlights a sense of pride and identity, affirming its roots and widespread admiration. Further, songs like ‘El Choclo’ and ‘La Cumparsita’ mentioned in the lyrics are actual historic tangos, anchoring the narrative in real-world references that would resonate deeply with an Argentine audience, linking the music indelibly to their cultural heritage.

Tango argentino in Historic Context

Recorded in 1950, the song reflects a period when tango music was evolving from its humble beginnings into an internationally recognized phenomenon. This timeframe saw Argentina’s society undergoing significant changes, and tango was transitioning from the dance halls of Buenos Aires’ lower classes to more respected venues and eventually conquering audiences in Europe. The lyrics protest against attempts to mix tango with more aristocratic forms or modern styles like jazz, emphasizing its unique cultural and historical identity rooted deep in the Argentinean spirit. This insistence on authenticity speaks to a broader protective sentiment toward national culture during times of significant societal shifts.

Alfredo Bigeschi

Alfredo Bigeschi was an Argentine lyricist and tango writer, known for capturing the essence of Buenos Aires’ urban and suburban life in his lyrics.