Antonio Maida

Antonio Maida (July 15, 1913 – August 23, 1984) was an Argentine tango singer, actor, and radio director born in the Balvanera neighborhood of Buenos Aires. Son of Nicolás and María Rosa Sorrentino, he was the younger brother of celebrated singer Roberto Maida (1908–1993), who performed with Francisco Canaro’s orchestra.

Maida debuted at age 16 at Café Germinal in a youth orchestra, later joining Juan Maglio’s ensemble and performing on Radio Cultura in 1931. His recording career began January 9, 1934, when maestro Edgardo Donato contracted him to replace vocalist Félix Gutiérrez. Between 1934 and 1935, he recorded approximately 24 pieces with Donato’s orchestra across multiple genres—tangos, pasodobles, and rancheras—becoming known for performances of “El huracán,” “Berretín,” and “Riachuelo.” From 1936, he performed as a soloist accompanied by guitarists on Radio Belgrano. In 1944, Ricardo Malerba’s orchestra engaged him; his signature piece “Media noche” (September 8, 1944) became widely popular through his interpretation. He remained with Malerba until late 1946, also appearing in the films “Joven viuda y estanciera” (1941) and “La Rubia Mireya” (1948). From 1958, Maida served as artistic advisor to LS6 Radio del Pueblo, becoming general director in February 1959, where he championed tango programming. On May 3, 1963, he co-founded the legendary tango venue Caño 14 with Atilio Stampone and others, establishing it as a premier showcase for major artists throughout the 1960s.