Baltazar Brum

Tabare Etcheverry's song "Baltazar Brum" is a poignant tribute to the Uruguayan statesman Baltazar Brum, who took a dramatic stand against the dictatorship of Gabriel Terra in 1933. The song is part of Etcheverry's 1972 musical work "Crónicas de Hombres Libres," which chronicles the lives of free men. Through a blend of recitation and singing, Etcheverry paints a vivid picture of Brum's solitary defiance and ultimate sacrifice.

The lyrics recount the events of March 31, 1933, when Brum, disillusioned by the betrayal of his countrymen and the military, chose to stand alone against the encroaching dictatorship. The recited verses highlight the absence of support from the military and the political party that once backed him, emphasizing Brum's isolation. The repeated questioning of "Where are the Colonels and Generals?" and "Where are the citizens of Montevideo?" underscores the abandonment Brum felt from those who should have stood by him.

In the sung portions, Etcheverry describes Brum's final moments with vivid imagery. Brum, with his shirt open and a revolver in hand, symbolizes the courage and desperation of a man fighting for his principles. The song reaches its climax with Brum's tragic death at 4 PM, marking the end of his solitary stand. The city, described as lifeless and unresponsive, contrasts sharply with the presence of uniformed soldiers saluting the dictator, highlighting the stark reality of Brum's sacrifice.

Etcheverry's musical style, characterized by its blend of folk and protest music, adds a layer of emotional depth to the narrative. The use of the traditional "vidalita" form in the sung sections connects the story to Uruguay's cultural heritage, making Brum's story not just a historical account but a part of the nation's collective memory.