He founded, in 1971, the recognized independent record label Ayuí/Tacuabé in order to promote and support valuable Uruguayan musical expressions, along with other musicians like José "Pepe" Guerra, Braulio López, Coriún Aharonián, Myriam Dibarboure, María Teresa Sande and Edgardo Bello,
He has performed the works of Cuban Nueva Trova stars Silvio Rodríguez and Pablo Milanés and Brazil's Chico Buarque and Edu Lobo and has worked with Cuban composer and arranger Leo Brouwer. His recordings are widely available, especially "Trópicos" (1972).
Viglietti was imprisoned in 1972 by his own government. He was supported by the likes of Jean-Paul Sartre as an international man of conscience, a voice for peace, and an opponent of the fascism and tyranny that plagued South America in the 1970s. Rumors about possible mistreatment against him forced the authorities to bring him out in front of television cameras to show that, in particular, his hands were fine. However, Viglietti spoke out that his treatment in police custody was much better than what other political prisoners received. He was a peer of the late Chilean poet and folk singer Victor Jara and composer and activist Violeta Parra.
Pobre Del Cantor
Daniel Viglietti Lyrics
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Que no arriesgue su cuerda por
No arriesgar su vida
Pobre del cantor que nunca sepa
Que fuimos la semilla y hoy somos esta vida
Pobre del cantor que un día la historia
Lo borre sin la gloria
Pobre del cantor que fue marcado
Para sufrir un poco y hoy está derrotado
Pobre del cantor que sus informes
Le borren hasta el nombre con copias asesinas
Pobre del cantor que no se alce
Y siga hacia adelante con más
Canto y más vida
Pobre del cantor que no halle el modo
De tener bien seguro su proceder con todos
Pobre del cantor que no se imponga
Con su canción de gloria, con embarres y lodo
Pobre del cantor de nuestros días
Que no arriesgue su cuerda por
No arriesgar su vida
Pobre del cantor que nunca sepa
Que fuimos la semilla y hoy somos esta vida
The lyrics of Daniel Viglietti's song "Pobre Del Cantor" depict the struggles and challenges faced by contemporary singers and musicians. The singer mourns for the modern-day troubadour who hesitates to put their vocal cords at risk, symbolizing a reluctance to truly pour their heart and soul into their art for fear of the consequences. The reference to risking their lives underscores the idea that true artists must be willing to make sacrifices and face hardships for their craft.
The singer laments for those musicians who may never realize the profound impact they have on the world, as they fail to recognize that they are the fruit of the labor and sacrifices of those who came before them. The concept of being the "seed" that has now blossomed into the current reality is a reminder of the interconnectedness of generations and the responsibility of each artist to honor their roots and carry on the legacy of their predecessors.
The lyrics also touch upon the fear of being forgotten by history, of fading away without the recognition and acknowledgment they crave for their contributions. The idea of being consigned to obscurity without the glory of having faced and overcome challenges, or having left a lasting impression, reflects the insecurity and vulnerability that many artists face in a world that often values fame and success over true artistic expression.
The song emphasizes the importance of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity and hostility. It warns against being silenced or erased by oppressive forces that seek to suppress creativity and dissent. The call for artists to stand tall, to continue moving forward with courage and determination, despite the obstacles and hurdles that stand in their way, serves as a rallying cry for all those who use their voices to speak truth to power and inspire change. The singer's message is a poignant reminder of the power of music and art to transcend barriers and touch hearts, even in the face of oppression and adversity.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
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