We have a collection of 5 arrangements for Ángel Villoldo - E. S. Discepolo - M. Catan - El Choclo
Why is this iconic tango titled "El Choclo" (The Corn Cob)? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Ángel Gregorio Villoldo: Pioneer of Argentine Tango
Ángel Gregorio Villoldo, also known as "El Choclo," was a prominent figure in the history of tango music. Here are some interesting facts about him:
Early Life: Ángel Gregorio Villoldo was born on February 16, 1861, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He came from a humble background and had a challenging upbringing.
Pioneer of Tango: Villoldo is often credited with composing the first-ever tango song, which is "El Choclo." He wrote the lyrics in 1903, and the music was composed by the Uruguayan musician Enrique Santos Discépolo. "El Choclo" quickly became a sensation and played a significant role in popularizing the tango genre.
Versatile Musician: Villoldo was a multi-talented musician. In addition to being a lyricist and composer, he was also an accomplished guitarist and singer. He played a crucial role in the development of tango music, not just as a composer but as a performer as well.
Tango Lyrics: Apart from "El Choclo," Villoldo wrote many other tango lyrics that are still cherished in the tango world. Some of his notable compositions include "El Esquinazo," "La Morocha," and "El Porteñito."
Nickname "El Choclo": The nickname "El Choclo" literally translates to "The Corn Cob" in English. It is derived from Villoldo's song of the same name. The song's lyrics tell the story of a rural man selling corn cobs in the city, and the catchy tune helped solidify Villoldo's nickname.
Tango's Golden Age: Villoldo was active during the "Golden Age of Tango" in Argentina, which lasted from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century. He played a vital role in shaping the early tango music scene in Buenos Aires.
Contributions to Tango Tradition: His compositions, such as "El Choclo," became an integral part of the traditional tango repertoire and are still performed and appreciated by tango musicians and dancers worldwide.
Legacy: Ángel Gregorio Villoldo's contributions to tango music made him a revered figure in the history of Argentine culture. He helped lay the foundation for the tango as a musical and dance genre, and his work continues to be celebrated and remembered today.
Later Life: Villoldo continued to be involved in the music industry throughout his life. He passed away on October 14, 1919, but his legacy lives on through his timeless tango compositions.
Cultural Icon: Ángel Gregorio Villoldo's influence on tango cannot be overstated. He is regarded as one of the pioneers who helped transform tango from a local folk tradition into a globally recognized and cherished art form.
Ángel Gregorio Villoldo's contributions to tango music and his enduring legacy as "El Choclo" have left an indelible mark on the world of music and dance, making him an iconic figure in Argentine culture.