We have a collection of 23 arrangements for Carlos Gardel - Alfredo Le Pera - Por una cabeza
What iconic tango composition features in Hollywood films like "Scent of a Woman"? Learn!
Carlos Gardel was an iconic Argentine singer, songwriter, and actor who became one of the most prominent figures in the history of tango music. Here are some interesting facts about him and his famous song "Por una Cabeza":
Early Life: Carlos Gardel was born on December 11, 1890, in Toulouse, France, but he was raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He is often referred to as "El Zorzal Criollo," which translates to "The Criollo Songbird."
Tango Pioneer: Gardel is credited with helping to popularize tango music both in Argentina and around the world. He is often considered the most important figure in the early development of tango as a musical genre.
Songwriting: While Gardel is best known as a singer, he also wrote many of his own songs. "Por una Cabeza" is one of his most famous compositions. It was written in collaboration with Alfredo Le Pera, who wrote the lyrics.
Film Career: Gardel was not just a musician; he was also a talented actor. He appeared in numerous films, contributing to the spread of tango music through cinema. One of his most famous films is "Tango Barrio," released in 1935.
Global Success: Gardel's popularity extended far beyond Argentina. He toured extensively throughout Europe, the United States, and Latin America, earning a global fanbase.
Tragic Death: On June 24, 1935, Carlos Gardel tragically died in a plane crash in Medellin, Colombia, at the age of 44. This event sent shockwaves throughout the tango world and beyond, as he was at the height of his career.
Enduring Legacy: Despite his relatively short life, Carlos Gardel's impact on tango music and culture is immeasurable. He is still celebrated today as a tango legend, and his music continues to be enjoyed and performed worldwide.
"Por una Cabeza": The phrase "Por una Cabeza" translates to "by a head" in English and refers to a narrow victory in horse racing. The song is a metaphor for the thrill of gambling and the risk involved. It has been covered and used in various films and TV shows, becoming one of the most recognizable tango melodies in history.
Iconic Interpretations: In addition to Gardel's original version, "Por una Cabeza" has been covered by many artists over the years, including famous violinist Itzhak Perlman and the renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma.
Oscar-Winning Connection: The song gained even more fame when it was featured in the 1992 film "Scent of a Woman," starring Al Pacino. The movie won Al Pacino his first Academy Award for Best Actor, and the tango scene featuring "Por una Cabeza" is one of the film's most memorable moments.
Carlos Gardel's music and "Por una Cabeza" continue to captivate audiences, ensuring his place as a timeless figure in the world of tango and music history.