El Motivo Tango: Lyrics And Chords Explained

Let's dive into the heart of tango with a detailed exploration of "El Motivo". This timeless piece captures the essence of tango's passion, melancholy, and intricate musicality. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting your tango journey, understanding the lyrics and chords of "El Motivo" will deepen your appreciation for this iconic song. We will start by explaining the history and context of the song, and then go into a detailed explanation of the lyrics and chords, so you can start playing it yourself. So, grab your instrument, and let's get started!

History and Context

"El Motivo," composed by Juan Carlos Cobián with lyrics by Pascual Contursi, stands as a quintessential example of the Argentine tango. Originating in the early 20th century, tango emerged from the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires and Montevideo, blending European immigrant influences with African rhythms and indigenous melodies. This fusion gave birth to a unique musical form that quickly gained popularity, spreading from the dance halls and cabarets to the wider world. "El Motivo," first recorded in 1920, encapsulates the spirit of this era, reflecting the cultural and emotional landscape of a society undergoing rapid transformation. The tango's themes of love, loss, longing, and urban life resonated deeply with audiences, providing an outlet for expressing the complexities of human experience. Cobián's composition is characterized by its elegant melodies and harmonic richness, while Contursi's lyrics evoke vivid images and poignant emotions. Together, they created a masterpiece that continues to captivate listeners and dancers alike. Understanding the historical and cultural context of "El Motivo" enhances our appreciation for its enduring appeal, reminding us of the power of music to transcend time and connect us to the past. As we delve into the lyrics and chords, we'll uncover the layers of meaning and emotion embedded within this iconic tango, gaining insight into the hearts and minds of its creators and the world they inhabited. The legacy of "El Motivo" lives on, inspiring generations of tango musicians and dancers to embrace the passion and artistry of this timeless genre. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of music to capture the human experience in all its complexity and beauty.

Lyrical Breakdown

The lyrics of "El Motivo" penned by Pascual Contursi, are a poignant exploration of lost love and enduring heartache. Contursi, a master of tango lyricism, weaves a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. The words evoke a sense of longing, regret, and the haunting memory of a past romance. Each verse is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, painting vivid images of the protagonist's emotional state. The opening lines set the stage, introducing the theme of a love that has slipped away, leaving behind a void that cannot be filled. As the song progresses, the lyrics delve deeper into the complexities of the relationship, exploring the reasons for its demise and the lingering pain that remains. Contursi's use of metaphor and imagery adds layers of meaning to the words, inviting listeners to interpret the story in their own way. The recurring motif of "el motivo" (the reason or motive) serves as a central question, prompting reflection on the underlying causes of the heartbreak. Was it fate, misunderstanding, or simply the inevitable course of human relationships? The lyrics offer no easy answers, instead embracing the ambiguity and uncertainty that often accompany matters of the heart. The emotional intensity of the lyrics is further heightened by Contursi's skillful use of language, employing evocative words and phrases that resonate with raw emotion. The listener is drawn into the protagonist's world, experiencing their sadness, their longing, and their quiet despair. Ultimately, the lyrics of "El Motivo" are a testament to the power of tango to express the full spectrum of human emotions, from the heights of passion to the depths of sorrow. They remind us that love, in all its beauty and pain, is a universal experience that transcends time and culture. The enduring appeal of "El Motivo" lies in its ability to touch our hearts and minds, inviting us to reflect on our own experiences with love and loss.

Chord Progression Analysis

The chord progression of "El Motivo", masterfully crafted by Juan Carlos Cobián, is a sophisticated blend of harmonic richness and emotional depth. It's this harmonic structure that provides the foundation for the tango's signature sound, creating a compelling backdrop for the poignant lyrics. The progression is characterized by its use of both major and minor chords, creating a dynamic interplay between light and shadow, joy and sorrow. This reflects the complex emotions inherent in the tango's themes of love, loss, and longing. The use of diminished chords adds a touch of drama and tension, heightening the emotional impact of the music. These chords often appear at key moments in the song, underscoring the protagonist's feelings of vulnerability and despair. The chord progression also features a number of passing chords, which create a sense of movement and fluidity. These chords serve to connect the main chords of the progression, adding complexity and sophistication to the harmonic structure. Cobián's skillful use of chord voicings and inversions further enhances the beauty and expressiveness of the music. By carefully selecting the arrangement of notes within each chord, he creates a rich and textured sound that is both captivating and emotionally resonant. The chord progression of "El Motivo" is not only beautiful but also structurally sound. It follows a logical and coherent pattern, creating a sense of balance and resolution. This allows the listener to feel both emotionally moved and musically satisfied. Analyzing the chord progression of "El Motivo" reveals the genius of Cobián's composition and provides insights into the underlying structure of the tango. It demonstrates how harmonic choices can be used to create a specific mood and evoke a range of emotions. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a novice, studying the chord progression of "El Motivo" is a valuable exercise that will deepen your understanding and appreciation of tango music.

Common Chord Charts and Variations

When exploring "El Motivo" on guitar or piano, you'll find that several chord charts and variations exist. These arrangements cater to different skill levels and musical preferences, allowing you to adapt the song to your own style. A basic chord chart typically includes the essential chords needed to play the song, such as Am, Dm, G, C, and E7. These chords form the foundation of the tango, providing a solid harmonic framework for the melody. However, more advanced arrangements may incorporate additional chords, such as diminished chords, seventh chords, and altered chords, to add complexity and color to the music. These variations can create a richer and more nuanced sound, enhancing the emotional impact of the song. Some chord charts may also include suggested voicings, which indicate the specific arrangement of notes within each chord. Experimenting with different voicings can significantly alter the sound of the music, allowing you to create a unique and personalized interpretation of "El Motivo". In addition to chord charts, you may also find variations in the song's structure and arrangement. Some versions may include instrumental breaks or interludes, while others may feature different vocal harmonies or melodic variations. These variations can add interest and excitement to the song, keeping it fresh and engaging for both the performer and the audience. When choosing a chord chart or variation, it's important to consider your own skill level and musical preferences. If you're a beginner, it's best to start with a simple arrangement that focuses on the essential chords. As you become more comfortable with the song, you can gradually explore more advanced variations. Ultimately, the goal is to find an arrangement that you enjoy playing and that allows you to express your own unique musicality. Whether you prefer a traditional or contemporary approach, there's a chord chart or variation of "El Motivo" that's perfect for you.

Playing "El Motivo": Tips and Techniques

Mastering "El Motivo" requires more than just knowing the chords and lyrics; it's about capturing the essence of tango and conveying its deep emotions through your playing. Whether you're a guitarist, pianist, or any other instrumentalist, here are some tips and techniques to help you bring this iconic tango to life. Firstly, focus on rhythm. Tango rhythm is characterized by its strong, syncopated beat and its distinctive "marcato" accents. Practice playing with a metronome to develop a solid sense of timing and to ensure that your rhythm is precise and consistent. Secondly, pay attention to dynamics. Tango is a highly expressive genre, and dynamics play a crucial role in conveying the music's emotional content. Use a wide range of dynamics, from soft and delicate to loud and forceful, to create contrast and to emphasize key moments in the song. Thirdly, listen to recordings of "El Motivo" by renowned tango musicians. Pay attention to their phrasing, their articulation, and their overall interpretation of the song. Try to emulate their style and to incorporate their techniques into your own playing. Fourthly, experiment with different fingerings and voicings to find the most comfortable and expressive way to play the chords. Don't be afraid to deviate from the standard chord charts and to create your own unique arrangements. Fifthly, practice regularly and consistently. Like any musical skill, mastering tango takes time and dedication. Set aside time each day to practice "El Motivo", and gradually increase the difficulty of your practice sessions as you improve. Finally, don't be afraid to improvise. Tango is a highly improvisational genre, and many of the greatest tango musicians are known for their ability to create spontaneous and inspired solos. Try to incorporate improvisation into your playing, and let your creativity flow. By following these tips and techniques, you'll be well on your way to mastering "El Motivo" and to capturing the passion and beauty of tango music. So grab your instrument, start practicing, and let the music transport you to the heart of Buenos Aires.