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Carlos Gardel - Por Una Cabeza

"Por una cabeza" is a tango song written by Carlos Gardel and Alfredo Le Pera. Carlos Gardel himself is a prominent figure in the world of tango music, and "Por una cabeza" is one of his most famous compositions. Here are some interesting facts about both Carlos Gardel and the song "Por una cabeza":

  1. Carlos Gardel's Early Life: Carlos Gardel was born on December 11, 1890, in Toulouse, France. He was raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he became one of the most renowned tango singers and actors of his time. He is often referred to as the "King of Tango" and is credited with popularizing tango music worldwide.

  2. Tango Icon: Gardel's contributions to tango music and culture are immense. He not only sang tango songs but also acted in numerous tango-themed films, which helped solidify his status as a cultural icon.

  3. "Por una cabeza" Composition: The song "Por una cabeza" was composed in 1935 by Carlos Gardel and Alfredo Le Pera. The music was composed by Gardel himself, and Le Pera wrote the lyrics. The song's title translates to "By a Head" in English, referring to a close horse race where one horse wins by just a head's length.

  4. Horse Racing Metaphor: The lyrics of "Por una cabeza" draw on a horse racing metaphor to describe the emotions and intensity of love. The narrator compares falling in love to the excitement of betting on a horse race and losing by a head. The song beautifully captures the passion and thrill of romantic pursuits.

  5. Film Appearances: "Por una cabeza" has been featured in several films and television shows, adding to its popularity and recognition. One of the most notable appearances is in the film "Scent of a Woman" (1992), where Al Pacino's character performs a memorable tango scene.

  6. Global Impact: Carlos Gardel's music, including "Por una cabeza," has transcended cultural boundaries and is beloved by tango enthusiasts worldwide. His distinctive voice and style helped shape the way tango music is understood and appreciated.

  7. Tragic Death: On June 24, 1935, Carlos Gardel tragically died in a plane crash in Medellín, Colombia, at the age of 44. His untimely death further solidified his legendary status and contributed to the mystique surrounding his life and work.

  8. Legacy: Carlos Gardel's legacy continues to thrive. His recordings are still widely listened to, and his influence can be felt in modern interpretations of tango music. His impact on popularizing tango internationally is immeasurable.

  9. Cultural Heritage: Gardel's contributions to tango music and culture have led to him being celebrated as a national treasure in Argentina and a symbol of the country's musical heritage. His music is an integral part of Argentina's identity.

  10. Enduring Appeal: "Por una cabeza" remains one of the most beloved and recognizable tango songs to this day. Its timeless lyrics, evocative melody, and emotional depth ensure that it continues to resonate with audiences around the world.

Carlos Gardel's "Por una cabeza" stands as a testament to the enduring power of tango music and its ability to capture complex emotions through melody and verse.

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