El Choclo

"El Choclo" was written by Argentine composer Ángel Villoldo, one of the pioneers of the *guardia vieja* (old guard) era of tango. The piece was composed and published in 1903, making it one of the earliest hit tangos. Villoldo helped popularize the genre both locally in Buenos Aires and internationally.

The literal translation of "El Choclo" is "The Corn Cob." Villoldo reportedly used the term as a slang word for a hair style or, more controversially, to describe a specific part of the male anatomy. The title represents the earthy, working-class roots from which early tango emerged.

Yes, "The Kiss of Fire" is an English vocal adaptation of "El Choclo" created in 1952. The English lyrics were written by Lester Allen and Robert Hill, with the most famous recordings done by vocalists like Julie London. This version transformed the bold instrumental tango into a sultry pop-jazz standard.

The piece has been famously recorded by legendary tango bandleaders like Juan D'Arienzo and Julio De Caro, who gave it vastly different rhythmic and melodic treatments. It is considered a required standard in any traditional tango orchestra's repertoire. The song's 32-bar AABB structure is a classic example of early Argentine tango composition.