Adiós Chantecler (part. Jorge Valdez)

Juan D'arienzo's song "Adiós Chantecler," featuring Jorge Valdez, is a poignant tribute to the once-vibrant Chantecler cabaret, now reduced to ruins. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the cabaret's former glory, juxtaposed with its current desolation. The cold pickaxe that demolished the building symbolizes the relentless march of time and change, leaving the milonguero (tango dancer) feeling like a poet, compelled to express his sorrow through a muted, melancholic tango.

The song reminisces about the lively atmosphere of Chantecler, with its red velvet curtains and high balconies. It evokes the image of Madama Ritana, adorned in jewels and sipping champagne, and the beautiful yet sad Renée, whose presence captivated the singer. These characters, along with the bustling energy of the cabaret, are now just memories. The singer's nostalgia is palpable as he recalls the laughter, jokes, and the enchanting allure of the place, which no longer exists.

The lyrics also pay homage to the legendary Juan D'arienzo, known as "Juancito," whose orchestra's famous style once filled the cabaret with nervous rhythm. The song laments the loss of not just the physical space but the entire cultural and social milieu that Chantecler represented. The Cuban prince, another figure from the past, is seen passing silently by the ruins, embodying the collective sorrow of those who once found joy and identity in the cabaret. "Adiós Chantecler" is a heartfelt farewell to a bygone era, capturing the essence of nostalgia, loss, and the passage of time through the lens of tango.