El Porteño (part. Héctor Maure)

Juan D'arienzo's song 'El Porteño,' featuring Héctor Maure, is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the evolution of cultural traditions. The lyrics delve into the impact of progress on national customs and the inevitable changes that come with it. D'arienzo, known as the 'King of the Beat' in the tango world, uses this song to juxtapose the old with the new, highlighting the bittersweet nature of progress. The song opens with a recognition of how progress ('el progreso') alters the customs and elements of national life, suggesting a sense of loss for the past ('el pasado de arrabal') and its associated cultural expressions like tangos and milongas.

The chorus, 'A bailar el milongon,' serves as a call to embrace a new dance, the 'milongon,' which symbolizes the renewal of cultural practices. This dance is described as generating a feeling ('genera un sentimiento') and being cradled by the rhythm of the bandoneon, a quintessential instrument in tango music. The imagery of bodies drawing close and eyes shining with emotion ('arrimándose los cuerpos y los ojos fulgurantes') evokes a sense of intimacy and passion, suggesting that while traditions may evolve, the core emotions they evoke remain timeless.

D'arienzo's collaboration with Héctor Maure adds a layer of authenticity and depth to the song, as Maure's voice is deeply rooted in the traditional tango style. Together, they create a piece that honors the past while encouraging the embrace of new cultural expressions. The song is a testament to the resilience of cultural identity, showing that even as customs change, the essence of what makes them meaningful can be preserved and celebrated in new forms.