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Cool! Introducing classic masterpieces of Argentine tango

Argentine tango, the musical style that represents Argentina.

Although Argentine tango is widely known as a genre, it isn’t actually a clearly defined one.

Originally, it was more of a form, without a strict genre definition.

However, its wistful, melancholic melodies grew popular, and recognition of it as a genre spread to what we know today.

Here, we’ve gathered famous pieces of Argentine tango.

We’ve also selected contemporary Argentine tango, so please enjoy to the end!

Cool and Classy! Introducing Masterpieces of Argentine Tango (11–20)

Mi ConfesionGotan Project

Gotan Project is an Argentine tango band based in Paris.

They’re what you’d call a neo-tango band.

Unlike other neo-tango bands or groups, however, they actively use sampling, and their music is full of playfulness.

Among their works, the one I particularly recommend is Mi Confesión.

It’s a neo-tango track with a hip-hop feel, sampling numerous classics of Argentine tango.

Hoy (feat. Juan Subirá)Bajofondo

If you want to listen to modern Argentine tango, I recommend “Hoy (feat.

Juan Subirá).” The track is by a band called Bajofondo, known for blending Argentine tango with contemporary styles like techno and pop.

Among their works, this song in particular has a notably cool, understated vibe.

Juan’s husky vocals capture the poignant melancholy of Argentine tango perfectly.

A Media LuzE. Donato, C. Lenzi

If you like an antique vibe, I recommend “A Media Luz.” It’s an Argentine tango with vocals and a classic that still has a devoted core of fans.

Since it was recorded in the 1920s, there’s a crackling hiss throughout.

Unlike ordinary noise, that crackle adds character, doesn’t it? If you find yourself drawn to lo-fi sound quality, this piece will likely hook you—so be sure to check it out.

El día que me quierasCarlos Gardel

Carlos Gardel – El día que me quieras (Letra-Lyrics) [HQ]
El día que me quierasCarlos Gardel

Carlos Gardel is a singer who continues to command respect not only from the people of his homeland as an icon of Argentine tango, but also from artists around the world.

Although he passed away at a young age, he left behind numerous hit songs during his lifetime.

One of them is “El día que me quieras.” It’s a masterpiece where the lush performance and his wistful vocals are a perfect match.

Also, because the recording is very old, the rough sound quality gives it a unique charm.

Canaro en ParisFrancisco Canaro

When you hear “Argentine tango,” many people probably think of it as Argentine music.

It’s true that Argentine tango was born in Argentina, as its name suggests.

However, Argentina was by no means the only country to produce great tango masterpieces.

For example, Canaro en Paris is a renowned Argentine tango, yet it was composed by the Uruguayan musician Francisco Canaro.

In this way, even under the single label of Argentine tango, classics have emerged from various countries.

Why not try listening and comparing them by country?

Adios MuchachosJ. Sanders, C. Vedani

When people think of Argentine tango, many probably imagine a glamorous, luxurious style.

Of course, that kind of musicality is one of tango’s charms, but there are also relaxed, acoustic pieces.

One such example is Adios Muchachos.

Its very simple arrangement of classical guitar and vocals is striking.

Despite the acoustic setup, it still conveys the wistful and sultry atmosphere of Argentine tango—another key part of its appeal.

In conclusion

This time, I introduced some classic Argentine tango pieces, and I also picked out some relatively new works.

They fall under what’s called Nuevo Argentine Tango, a genre that is still evolving.

We can look forward to the future development of Argentine tango! At Ragu Music, in addition to this article, we feature music from various countries.

Be sure to check it out!