Song commentary
&
lyric translation
The story of Recuerdos
The vals “Recuerdos” is the first hit recorded by Tanturi’s legendary orchestra in 1941 with the singer Alberto Castillo . It is a vals, and of course, it is a love song. Women and love have always been a theme central to tango songs. However, the way they are depicted drastically evolved over time –from ruthless individuals to angelic beings!
In the early days of tango, from 1917 to 1929, most love songs picture callous women who abandon their lover. During these years, a massive shift is happening in Argentine society; women begin to gain more power and independence and are therefore freer to choose a partner. Tango songs express the reaction of men, and lost love becomes the common expression of their helplessness.
Until 1935, women are depicted as more ‘normal’ human beings with a broad range of feelings, and they are not always to blame for ending love relationships. This marks a shift in machismo values and the acceptance of women new role in society.
Last, from 1935 to about 1940, contrary to the first period, women are pictured with exaltation as extraordinary, idealised beings, involved in love stories that are absolutely perfect… but somehow impossible and lost in the past.
‘Recuerdos’ is a typical example of this last type of tango love songs and death is what made the perfect love story end. A beautiful, sentimental love song…
“Recuerdos” has been translated by Tanguito, Argentine Tango Academy in London. We hope you enjoy this translation. If you have any comments, don’t hesitate to drop us a line.
Old school milongueros say it’s easier to fully interpret a tango song when you know the lyrics. So, we have translated and commented over 35 of the most beautiful and famous tango songs. Browse our translations and enjoy the stronger connexion with the music.
And if you are tempted to join us, why not try our Argentine tango classes in London or browse our library of online classes?
The song
Recuerdos lyrics
in Spanish & English
RecuerdosMurió mi compañera idolatrada |
MemoriesShe died, the lover I idolised |
| En la noche callada y misteriosa su recuerdo me inunda el corazón y su nombre dulcísimo reboza de mis labios temblando de pasión. Ella fue la esperanza de mi vida, mi consuelo, mi dicha y mi sentir; la adorada mujer, que no se olvida y que se lleva en el alma hasta morir. Yo la amaba con ciega idolatría ella fue la ventura para mí porque puso en mí vida tan sombría con su dulce cariño, la alegría que consuela la angustia del vivir. |
In the silent, mysterious night her memory floods my heart and her sweet name coats my lips trembling with passion. She was the hope of my life, my comfort, my joy and my feelings; beloved woman, you won’t be forgotten and I’ll carry you in my soul until I die. I loved her with blind idolatry she brought me good fortune and with her sweet love put in my gloomy life, the joy that soothes the anguish of life. |
| En la noche callada y misteriosa para llevarla al suspirado cielo, ha bajado un ángel del Señor, ella se fue y mi vida sin consuelo. Lloro por siempre jamás, su eterno duelo ¡Oh cruel destino en dónde está mi amor! |
In the silent, mysterious night to take her up to the longing Heaven, came down an angel of the Lord, she is gone and my life is left without consolation. I’ll cry for ever and ever, in eternal sorrow. Oh, cruel fate, where is my love! |
