El Tango Es El Tango (feat. Alberto Castillo)

Ricardo Tanturi y Su Orquesta Tipica, featuring the iconic voice of Alberto Castillo, delivers a heartfelt homage to the enduring spirit of tango in the song 'El Tango Es El Tango.' The lyrics delve into the cultural and emotional significance of tango, emphasizing its timeless nature and deep roots in Argentine identity. The song opens with a vivid image of a man styling his hair, a nod to the traditional male figure in tango culture, who speaks dismissively of love, suggesting that it is not worth even a compliment. This sets the stage for a contrast between the old and new generations of tango enthusiasts.

The chorus, 'El tango es el tango,' reinforces the idea that tango's essence remains unchanged despite the passage of time and various stylistic evolutions. The mention of 'cuello pañuelo' (neckerchief) and 'gotan' (a playful inversion of the word 'tango') highlights the traditional attire and slang associated with the genre. The lyrics also touch on the melancholic and rough aspects of tango, describing it as 'triste el arrabal' (sad the slum), which reflects the genre's origins in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires.

The song further asserts that no matter how much one tries to modernize or romanticize tango with 'ribetes compadres' (swaggering trimmings) or 'cintas de amor' (ribbons of love), its core remains the same. The inclusion of 'milonga,' a related musical form, underscores the interconnectedness of these traditional Argentine styles. Ultimately, 'El Tango Es El Tango' is a celebration of the genre's authenticity and resilience, resonating with both contemporary and nostalgic listeners.