Jorge Cafrune facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Jorge Cafrune
Background information
Birth name	Jorge Antonio Cafrune
Born	(1937-08-08)August 8, 1937
Origin	Jujuy, Argentina
Died	February 1, 1978 (aged 40)
Genres	Argentine folk music
Occupation(s)	Singer, musician
Instruments	Vocals, guitar
Labels	Columbia, CBS

Jorge Antonio Cafrune (born August 8, 1937, in Perico Del Carmen, Jujuy, Argentina – died February 1, 1978, in Buenos Aires) was a very popular Argentine folk singer. He was also a dedicated researcher who collected and shared the native culture of his country. He helped many people learn about traditional Argentine music and customs.

Early Life and Musical Journey

Jorge Cafrune was born on a large farm called "La Matilde" in El Sunchal, Perico Del Carmen, Jujuy. His family had roots in Syria and Lebanon. He went to high school in San Salvador de Jujuy, where he also took guitar lessons with a teacher named Nicolás Lamadrid.

In 1957, Jorge recorded his first music with a group called Las Voces de Huayra. This group later changed its name to Los Cantores del Alba in 1960. A famous musician named Ariel Ramírez was their manager.

Performing at Festivals

Starting in 1962, Cafrune became a regular performer at the famous Cosquín Folkloric Festival. This festival is a big event for folk music in Argentina. In 1966, while visiting smaller towns, he met a young folk singer named José Larralde.

Traveling for Music

In 1967, Jorge Cafrune started a special journey called "De caballo por mi patria" (By Horse Through My Homeland). This trip was a tribute to a historical figure named Chacho Peñaloza. During this journey, Cafrune traveled all over Argentina, just like many traditional Argentine cowboys (called gauchos) used to do. He shared his music and messages with people across the country. He wanted to connect with the people and their culture directly.

Music and Challenges

In 1977, after living in Spain for several years, Jorge Cafrune returned to Argentina. At that time, Argentina was under a military government led by Jorge Rafael Videla. This government was very strict and controlled what people could say or sing.

Singing for the People

The government saw some of Cafrune's songs as a challenge, especially his popular song Zamba de mi esperanza. This song had a strong message that some found politically sensitive. Even though the government did not want him to sing it, Jorge Cafrune was determined. He famously said, "Even if it's not on the approved list, if my people ask me to sing it, I will." He believed in singing for the people and their freedom of expression.

A Tragic Accident

Sadly, Jorge Cafrune died on February 1, 1978, at the age of 40. He was riding a horse on a main road late at night when he was hit by a van. He passed away about twelve hours later. His death was a great loss to Argentine folk music.

Zamba de mi esperanza, a famous song by Jorge Cafrune, released by CBS Records International.

Film Appearances

Jorge Cafrune also appeared in several movies, often playing roles related to music and Argentine culture.

See also

In Spanish: Jorge Cafrune para niños