Composer

:

Tom Lehrer

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Tango

Average_duration

:

2:55

"The Masochism Tango" is a satirical song composed by Tom Lehrer, an American singer-songwriter, pianist, and mathematician. The song was first performed in 1959 and was later included in Lehrer's album "More of Tom Lehrer" in 1960. The song is a humorous take on the concept of masochism, where the protagonist describes his love for a woman who inflicts pain on him. The lyrics are filled with witty wordplay and puns, making it a classic example of Lehrer's style of musical comedy. The song is composed in a tango rhythm, with a slow and sensual tempo that adds to the irony of the lyrics. The melody is simple and repetitive, with a few variations in the chorus. The accompaniment is minimal, with Lehrer's piano playing the main role. The song is divided into three verses, each describing a different aspect of the protagonist's masochistic relationship. The first verse talks about the physical pain he endures, such as being hit with a frying pan or having his fingers broken. The second verse describes the emotional pain he experiences, such as being ignored or insulted by his lover. The third verse takes a more philosophical approach, questioning the nature of love and pain. The song's lyrics are characterized by Lehrer's trademark wit and humor. The puns and wordplay are clever and often unexpected, such as the line "I ache for the touch of your lips, dear, but much more for the touch of your whips, dear." The song's humor is dark and edgy, making it a favorite among fans of Lehrer's work. Overall, "The Masochism Tango" is a classic example of Tom Lehrer's unique style of musical comedy. Its clever lyrics, catchy melody, and dark humor have made it a favorite among fans for over six decades.

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