Ojos Negros is a beloved tango known for its catchy melody, romantic lyrics, and elegant style. Composed by Vicente Greco, a pioneer of tango and a talented bandoneon player, the piece reflects the golden era of Argentine music. In this article, we explore its origin, lyrics, and notable versions, including the guitar rendition by Roberto Pugliese.
The Origin of Ojos Negros
Vicente Greco composed Ojos Negros in 1910, when he was just 22. Born in Buenos Aires in 1888, Greco learned the bandoneon early and formed his first orchestra in 1906. He quickly rose to fame as a leading tango musician and composer, creating over 150 tangos such as El flete, El pibe, and El morocho.
Ojos Negros was one of his most cherished works and was dedicated to his wife, María Luisa, who had black eyes. Originally instrumental, the piece later received lyrics by Pedro Numa Córdoba, a poet and journalist. The lyrics express the pain of love lost and the longing for a woman with unforgettable eyes. The chorus reads:
Ojos negros, ojos negros, ¿dónde están, que no los veo? ¿Por qué se fueron de mi lado, dejándome en el pecho un mal herido?
Black eyes, black eyes, where are they, that I don’t see them? Why did they leave my side, leaving a wounded pain in my chest?
Versions of Ojos Negros
Over the years, this tango has been interpreted by artists from many genres and countries. Each version brings a unique flavor, adding new life to this timeless tango. Here are three notable renditions:
- Osvaldo Pugliese: A master of dramatic tango, Pugliese recorded Ojos Negros in 1972 with his orchestra. His version is bold and majestic, with bandoneon and strings taking center stage.
- Aníbal Troilo: Known for lyrical elegance, Troilo recorded his version in 1948. The arrangement is subtle and refined, emphasizing emotion over grandeur.
- Roberto Pugliese: As a tango guitarist and composer, Pugliese recorded a solo guitar version in 2019. His arrangement, based on the teachings of Anibal Arias, uses fingerstyle technique and expressive arpeggios. The result is intimate, personal, and deeply moving.
Conclusion
Ojos Negros has stood the test of time. From Greco’s original bandoneon lines to Pugliese’s classical guitar, this tango adapts to every style while preserving its core emotion. It is a living piece of tango history, proof of the genre’s emotional depth and cultural richness.
