Francisco Gorrindo
Francisco Gorrindo, born Froilán Francisco Gorrindo on October 5, 1908, in Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina, was a renowned Argentine lyricist and poet, particularly celebrated for his contributions to the tango genre. Raised in a middle-class household, Gorrindo lost his father at a young age and was brought up by his mother and aunts. Despite only completing primary education, he developed a passion for literature and poetry, which he pursued avidly.
Gorrindo's career as a lyricist gained significant momentum in the late 1930s, with a series of tangos that resonated deeply with the public, thanks to their direct and emotive language. His works often reflected themes of skepticism and social injustice, capturing the essence of the human experience with poignancy and depth. Among his most famous compositions is "Las cuarenta," a tango that has achieved classic status and is emblematic of his style.
Throughout his life, Gorrindo was known for his bohemian lifestyle and love for the nightlife, which often influenced his creative output. He was a municipal employee in Quilmes and married Elma Lepanti on June 21, 1937, with whom he had three children: Sonia Norma, Marta Edith, and Juan Carlos.
Gorrindo's body of work includes nearly seventy titles, with notable pieces such as "Ansiedad," "Mala suerte," "Gólgota," and "Paciencia." His first tango, "Perdón de muerta," was composed in his twenties and recorded by Mercedes Simone in 1931. Despite his success, Gorrindo remained a humble figure, deeply connected to his roots in Quilmes, where he lived until his death on January 2, 1963. His legacy endures through his timeless contributions to the tango tradition.