Tangerine
Stacey Kent
The Enigmatic Allure of 'Tangerine'
Stacey Kent's song 'Tangerine' paints a vivid picture of a captivating woman who mesmerizes everyone around her. The lyrics describe Tangerine as a woman of extraordinary beauty, with 'eyes of night' and 'lips as bright as flame.' These metaphors suggest a mysterious and alluring presence, someone who stands out in any crowd. The imagery of her dancing and the reactions she elicits from both 'senoritas' and 'caballeros' further emphasize her magnetic charm and the universal admiration she commands.
The song also delves into the social impact Tangerine has, with toasts raised in her honor 'in every bar across the Argentine.' This line suggests that her allure is not confined to a single place but is celebrated widely, making her a legendary figure. Despite the widespread admiration, the song reveals a poignant twist: 'her heart belongs to just one.' This line adds depth to her character, indicating that beneath her enchanting exterior, she harbors a deep, singular love.
Stacey Kent's smooth, jazz-inflected vocal style adds an additional layer of sophistication to the song. Known for her ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety, Kent brings Tangerine to life, making her both a symbol of universal beauty and a deeply personal figure. The repetition of the lines about toasts and her singular love underscores the duality of her public allure and private devotion, making 'Tangerine' a rich, multi-faceted character study.