Ricardo Tanturi / Castillo
Music and lyrics: Alfredo Pelaia
The vals “Recuerdos” is the first hit recorded by Alberto Castillo and Tanturi’s legendary orchestra in 1941. It is a vals, and of course, it is a love song. Women and love have always been a theme central to tango songs. However, the way they are depicted drastically evolved over time –from ruthless individuals to angelic beings! |
In the early days of tango, from 1917 to 1929, most love songs picture callous women who abandon their lover. During these years, a massive shift is happening in Argentine society; women begin to gain more power and independence and are therefore freer to choose a partner. Tango songs express the reaction of men, and lost love becomes the common expression of their helplessness.
Until 1935, women are depicted as more ‘normal’ human beings with a broad range of feelings, and they are not always to blame for ending love relationships. This marks a shift in machismo values and the acceptance of women new role in society.
Last, from 1935 to about 1940, contrary to the first period, women are pictured with exaltation as extraordinary, idealised beings, involved in love stories that are absolutely perfect… but somehow impossible and lost in the past.
‘Recuerdos’ is a typical example of this last type of tango love songs and death is what made the perfect love story end. A beautiful, sentimental love song…
“Recuerdos” has been translated by Tanguito, Argentine Tango Academy in London. We hope you enjoy this translation. If you have any comments, don’t hesitate to drop us a line.
The music
LISTEN TO RECUERDOS: click on http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPS_5yaKnXk.
The lyrics
Murió mi compañera idolatrada la mujer que jamás olvidaré, y que tengo en el alma reflejada, como tiene en su seno la alborada la estrella del callado amanecer. En la noche callada y misteriosa En la noche callada y misteriosa Lloro por siempre jamás, su eterno duelo |
She died, the partner I idolised the woman I will never forget, whom I hold as a reflection in my soul, as she holds within herself the dawn, the star of the silent dawn. In the silent, mysterious night In the silent, mysterious night |