Tango gris by Enrique Cadícamo

Tango gris is a Tango written by Enrique Cadícamo and composed by R. Luna.

Story behind the Tango Tango gris

“Tango gris” evokes a melancholic scenario deeply rooted in the somber aspects of the human experience. The lyrics depict a tango that sounds mournful and rhythmic, reflecting personal grief and emotion. The use of the term “gime gime tango gris” (moan, moan gray tango) personifies the tango as an entity capable of expressing sorrow, tying closely to the soulful performance of the bandoneón, a quintessential instrument in tango music. This tango draws its essence from an intimate drama, portraying a scene where personal despair is drowned in a small drink (“copetín”), a common way to seek solace in Argentine culture.

Symbolism of Tango gris

The symbolism in “Tango gris” is rich with emotional expression, utilizing the tango itself as a metaphor for the singer’s feelings. The “gris” (gray) in the title suggests a theme of ambiguity and melancholy, typical settings for tango which often dwells in the realm of faded joy and lingering sadness. The bandoneón’s cries symbolize an outlet for unspoken pain, reflecting the inner turmoil of the heart. The act of copying one’s sorrow into dance and music suggests a transformation of personal grief into an art form that others can feel and share, which is a therapeutic aspect of many art forms.

Tango gris in historic Context

Recorded in 1942 in Argentina, “Tango gris” was conceptualized during a period of global unrest due to World War II, though Argentina remained neutral much through the war. The tango scene in Argentina provided an escape and a deep emotional outlet during these turbulent times. The music acted not just as entertainment but as a communal catharsis, reflecting the social and political undercurrents through its melodies and lyrics. This song captures the essence of the era – the personal responses to the widespread distress and the longing for a reprieve from the prevailing angst.

Enrique Cadícamo

Enrique Cadícamo was a renowned Argentine poet and tango lyricist, whose works have significantly colored the legacy of Tango music with deep emotional and narrative layers.