Argentina - The magic of paths

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"Whirwinds blow in the sand,
The sun plays at the stony ground glow,
And siezed to the magic of paths,
The muleteer walks and walks".

That is how Atahualpa Yupanqui described part of the Argentine history in his immortal song “The Muleteer”. Today, January 31, 2008, we celebrate the 100th anniversary of  the birth of “Don Ata”, who came to be known as the universal symbol of the Argentine popular music.

Those who met him usually argue that the songs he composed basically reflect the landscape and sounds of the identity of each region of the country. He was a poet, composer and instrument player who not only sang all over Argentina, but also captivated Paris and Japan.

"Once I went to see him play at La Cova in San Isidro. When I went into his dressing room to meet him, I was afraid, almost shaking. And I was very respectful. He told me: “How are things with you, Gieco? (León Gieco is regarded as one of the greatest Argentine musicians.) Were you able to sit through it?” I immediately replied: “Please, master...!”. “That’s why I’m asking you – said Atahualpa–, because masters are usually unbearable. I only teach if I can learn at the same time”. And that was what his life was about: a teaching and learning experience. There is no single place in the country where the name Atahualpa Yupanqui has not been heard.

He passed away on May 23, 1992, and his wake was held at the National Congress and his coffin was covered with the Argentine flag. His remains lie at Cerro Colorado – Province of Cordoba–, at the foot of an oak tree to which he once sang a song. Despite his death, his voice and song lyrics keep him alive day after day.