Garganta Con Arena

Adriana Varela's 'Garganta Con Arena' is a poignant tribute to the legendary tango singer Roberto 'Polaco' Goyeneche. The song's title, which translates to 'Throat with Sand,' metaphorically captures the unique, gravelly quality of Goyeneche's voice, a voice that brought deep emotion and authenticity to the tango genre. The lyrics are a heartfelt plea for Goyeneche to sing one more tango, reflecting the deep connection between the singer and the essence of Buenos Aires' cultural soul.

The song delves into the struggles and the inevitable pain that come with a life dedicated to music. The lines 'Tu vida tiene un karma, Cantar, siempre cantar' (Your life has a karma, to sing, always to sing) suggest a sense of destiny and burden in Goyeneche's life, where singing is both a gift and a curse. The imagery of 'duendes y fantasmas' (goblins and ghosts) breathing through the old bandoneón (a type of accordion used in tango music) adds a mystical layer, emphasizing the haunting beauty and the emotional weight carried by the music.

Varela also references other iconic figures in the tango world, such as Malena and Troilo, creating a tapestry of homage and reverence. The mention of Troilo leaving a verse under Goyeneche's pillow from the heavens signifies the eternal bond and the spiritual legacy within the tango community. The song's recurring plea for Goyeneche to sing, despite his pain, underscores the idea that true art often comes from a place of deep personal suffering, resonating with audiences who may not fully grasp the artist's inner turmoil.

'Garganta Con Arena' is not just a song; it's a narrative of love, loss, and the undying spirit of tango. It speaks to the heart of Buenos Aires, where the air feels incomplete without the melancholic strains of a beloved voice. Through Varela's powerful interpretation, the song becomes a timeless ode to the enduring power of music and the artists who give their all to it.