Tango Profiles

In the 1920's tango had risen from low-class roots and become the music of the aristocracy in Buenos Aires. An elegant, tuxedoed Don Juan appeared on the scene. Juan Carlos Cobián was also a virtuoso pianist and gifted composer. Romance and adventure took him to New York and back, as he penned some of the songbook's greatest titles.

There are improbable stories in music history, unique examples of artists with very personal voices. In 1909 a young stage hand at an opera house discovered the music of Beethoven, sent himself to music school, and eventually became one of tango's biggest names.

La cumparsita is 100 years old. Starting as a simple melody written by a student, it soon became a magnet for lyrics, new music, spoken word, copyright infringement and lawsuits. Listen to this episode for the fascinating details, and some really good music.

Angel Villoldo is considered to be the 'father of tango.' His song 'El choclo' from around 1903 is one of the most famous tangos in history, but the original lyrics and melody are quite different from the ones most of us know. Here's the story of a very peculiar figure and the journey of his biggest hit.

Carlos Di Sarli is one of the most beloved figures in the history of tango, but in the beginning he didn't have it easy. Listen to find out why.

Welcome to Tango Profiles! This is a personal journey through tango history. I put a face to the name of each of the most important tango composers. There are some amazing, entertaining stories here, so start listening!