Yo soy el tango by

Yo soy el tango is a Tango written by and composed by Domingo Federico.

Story behind the Tango Yo soy el tango

The tango “Yo soy el tango” is an evocative expression of the persona and soul of the musical genre itself, deeply rooted in the streets and neighborhoods of Buenos Aires. The lyrics bring to life the essence of tango as a cultural and emotional force, highlighting its origins in the city’s suburbs where life is raw and turbulent. The tango, originally seen as chaotic and contentious, has transitioned into a more refined presence in salons, but it still retains its authentic ruggedness and profound emotional power.

Symbolism of Yo soy el tango

The song serves as a personification of tango, using vivid language to convey its spirit. The phrase “nacido en los suburbios, malevos y turbios” symbolizes tango’s emergence from rough and edgy environments, emphasizing its connection to the underbelly of society. The contrast between its earlier raw form and its polished present is captured in “hoy que estoy en el salón, me saben amansado, dulzón y cansado,” suggesting a mellowing over time yet retaining an inner vitality. The recurring sentiment “pa’ qué creer, pa’ qué mentir” questions the authenticity of its transformation, affirming that the core of tango remains unchanged. The line “me quiebro en mi canción como un puñal de acero” uses the metaphor of a steel dagger to illustrate the cutting intensity and emotional depth of its melody.

Yo soy el tango in historic Context

Created in 1941 in Buenos Aires, “Yo soy el tango” reflects a period where Argentine tango was transitioning from its roots in dance halls and bordellos into more mainstream acceptance. At that time, Buenos Aires was a melting pot of cultural and musical evolution. The historical context hints at the broader societal changes that both challenged and embraced tango, with the genre becoming a symbol of Argentine identity while also facing pressures to evolve and conform. The mention of “moda y los años” speaks to these pressures of modernization and the passage of time.

The composer, Domingo Federico, was a significant figure in the tango world. His contributions helped shape the genre, making it resonate deeply with the emotions and culture of Argentina during the mid-20th century.