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.
Tango is a Tango written by Homero Manzi and composed by Sebastián Piana.
The Tango “Tango” by Homero Manzi portrays the multifaceted essence of Buenos Aires’ streets and its inhabitants in the early 20th century. The lyrics open with mentions of everyday street corner elements — light posts and sidewalks that witness daily social interactions. The reference to traditional Argentine games, neighborhood coffee shops, and flirtatious exchanges highlights a lively, communal setting. Manzi eloquently captures the juxtaposition of urban struggle and the sweetness of local romances, framing the narrative within the soundscape of a typical Buenos Aires neighborhood.
Pivotal in the lyrics is the juxtaposition of tangible items and emotional depths, vividly portraying the scene with sensory-rich details. Phrases like “Piel oscura, voz de sangre” (dark skin, voice of blood) symbolize the intense, almost visceral connection and identity the dance has with the people. The “Tango” operates as a metaphor for life in these neighborhoods, embracing both bitter and joyous moments. Furthermore, Manzi references elements like “Gorrión cansado, jaula y miseria” (tired sparrow, cage, and misery), using avian imagery to symbolize trapped aspirations amidst poverty. The entire piece is imbued with a deep melancholy blended with nostalgic reverence for the simple yet profound pleasures of daily life.
Recorded in 1942, during a turbulent period in Argentine history marked by political strife and societal changes, “Tango” resonates deeply with a nation grappling with identity and upheaval. The lyrics reflect a longing for simpler times and the solace found in traditional customs amidst uncertainty. Homero Manzi, renowned for his profound and evocative storytelling, uses this tango to echo the sentiments of the ‘barrio’ or neighborhood, portraying its culture and struggles during an era where Argentina was transitioning both politically and socially.
Homero Manzi was a prominent Argentine lyricist famed for his poignant and poetic tango lyrics that profoundly captured the essence of urban life and emotions.