Episode 2

Recently I came across Tomo y Obligo, performed by Ángel D’Agostino’s orchestra. As with every piece that catches my ear, curiosity took over — I began to search for other versions. Hours later, I had found eight more.

In my daily life I’m a scientist and researcher, and I follow the same instinct in tango: to question, compare, and discover. Never stop exploring — because somewhere, hidden in an old recording or forgotten arrangement, your next gem may be waiting.

Tomo y Obligo is a poignant tango composed by Carlos Gardel with lyrics by Manuel Romero. First introduced in the 1931 film Las luces de Buenos Aires, it quickly became one of Gardel’s signature pieces. The song speaks of heartbreak, betrayal, and stoic masculinity — emotions that lie at the very heart of tango.

Let’s explore how different orchestras interpreted this timeless piece:

• Francisco Canaro with Carlos Gardel (1931)

• Angel D'Agostino (1943)

• Francisco Fiorentino 1946

• Donato Racciatti (1950)

• Jose Basso (1951)

• Francisco Canaro (1964)

• Francisco Canaro (1969)

• Donato Racciatti (1992)

• Los Macifesta (2003)

Aren’t they all so different? Have you ever heard Tomo y Obligo played at a milonga?

I chose this piece not only for its beauty but to remind us — as dancers and DJs — how important it is to explore multiple interpretations of the same song. For dancers, it’s a chance to deepen your musicality and attune your ear to the unique color of each orchestra. For DJs, it’s a creative challenge: how to build a tanda around each version, respecting its mood, tempo, and emotional tone. Every interpretation opens a new doorway into the tango universe.

For example, I’d play Canaro’s 1931 version at a práctica or early in a milonga. D’Agostino’s take, gentle and smooth, fits perfectly after fast valses or milongas — a lovely way to let dancers cool down. Racciatti’s 1950 version ideal for the heart of a Sunday milonga at your favorite marathon. If you crave emotional depth mid-evening, Fiorentino or Basso will give you that beautiful suspension. And for fans of modern interpretations, Los Macifesta offers a bold and refreshing touch.

Research is not only about collecting facts — it’s about curiosity, connection, and love for detail. As DJs, our work begins long before the first track plays. It starts with listening — again and again — until we hear the story behind every note.

#tango, #TangoArgentino, #tangodancer, #milonga, #milonguero, #tangodj