You'll note that many traditional Argentine tangos begin slowly to build the sensual mood, but you might be surprised to hear that the message isn't all bedroom-eyes feelings, but rather the opposite. The lyrics of Argentine tango frequently reflect nostalgic, sorrowful stories of lost or unrequited love, as well as laments for what cannot be. Of course, modern interpretations of the dance have gone beyond this, but the original message was one of despair.
Argentine tango music is distinct from other tango forms, owing to the country's combination of African and European ancestry. All variations contain a distinct, repeated beat that many refer to as the 'tango rhythm,' which is based on the 24 (dos por cuatro), two strong beats on the fourth beat. The accordion (or a comparable instrument), piano, guitar, violin, and singing are all common orchestral instruments.
While maintaining a traditional sound, tango speeds and approaches have evolved over time, and contemporary genres have entered the music, resulting in tango parts appearing in hip hop, jazz, and even electro.
There are many different forms of Argentine tango, but there are a few key gestures that distinguish it from simply cutting a rug in the clubs. The hug (where they hold each other tight and far), strolling (foot location is crucial!), and figures are among them. Because these are all 'improvised' actions like leg hooks and dips that are done in response to what the lead partner communicates, figures are where the actual expertise comes in. That is why practicing is so crucial, and mastering the type of dance takes a long period.
In reality, the Argentine tango was once widely practiced by male partners who intended to impress future female companions but needed to learn the techniques first. They'd take to the dance floor once they were ready, and (hopefully) find success.
During the 19th century, the tango became a recognized word as a meeting spot and dancing ritual for working-class populations in Buenos Aires and Montevido. As you can expect, the sensuous dance was extremely daring for its period, and because it was done by the lower classes, it was avoided by wealthier city dwellers, leading to it being performed in dimly lit pubs and clubs where immigrants and artists congregated.