Yuyo brujo by Carlos Waiss

Yuyo brujo is a Tango written by Carlos Waiss and composed by Benjamín García.

Story behind the Tango Yuyo brujo

The lyrics of “Yuyo brujo” depict a deeply emotional conversation, filled with longing and love. The protagonist beseeches his beloved, addressing her affectionately as ‘Nena’, to give him a kiss to erase past grievances that her lies have caused. The song swings through emotions of jealousy, deep admiration, and a profound desire to care and cherish the beloved, suggesting a relationship both intense and fraught with insecurity. The repeated entreaty not to deny the love underscores a fear of loss and abandonment, encapsulating the quintessential passion and drama of Tango.

Symbolism of Yuyo brujo

The phrase “Yuyo brujo,” which translates to “bewitched herb” in English, is a key symbolic element in the song. It metaphorically represents the enchanting, albeit possibly deceptive, allure of the beloved’s love and kisses. The repeated lines, “Yuyo brujo! / De tus besos! / Yuyo brujo! / De tu amor!” emphasize the intoxicating effect that the beloved has on the protagonist, akin to a magical spell. This symbolism effectively captures the blend of desire and fear, highlighting the intoxicating and potentially perilous nature of their love.

Yuyo brujo in historic Context

Released in 1949, “Yuyo brujo” arrives in a post-World War II era where Tango music was booming in Argentina, reflecting the complex social and emotional undercurrents of the time. The 1940s were a period marked by dramatic political and social changes in Argentina, and Tango often provided a space for emotional expression. “Yuyo brujo,” with its deep emotional currents, explores themes of love, jealousy, and desire, resonating with the Argentine populace grappling with their own personal and societal upheavals.

Carlos Waiss

Carlos Waiss was an influential figure in the field of Tango, known for his emotionally resonant lyrics that often portrayed complex human emotions.