G. Matos Rodriguez

Gerardo Hernán Matos Rodríguez (1897–1948) was a Uruguayan pianist, composer, and journalist known by the nickname “Becho.” Born in Montevideo to a family with cabaret interests, he briefly studied architecture before pursuing music professionally. Matos Rodríguez achieved lasting fame as composer of “La Cumparsita” (1916), widely regarded as the most iconic tango of all times. Created at age 19 for a university carnival parade, the piece was first recorded by Roberto Firpo’s orchestra in November 1916, though sources cite conflicting composition dates (February 8, 1916 per some accounts). The work gained worldwide renown after Argentine lyricists Pascual Contursi and Enrique P. Maroni added lyrics in 1924, sparking decades of copyright disputes. Beyond “La Cumparsita,” Matos Rodríguez composed approximately 70 works, including “Che papusa oí” (1927, his personal favorite), “Raspail (El caballo de oro),” and “San Telmo.” He worked internationally as Uruguayan consul to Germany and collaborated on film scores, notably Carlos Gardel’s 1931 “Luces de Buenos Aires.” Despite his composition’s global success, Matos Rodríguez endured health struggles, reportedly including respiratory issues, and died in Montevideo at age 51. Uruguay designated “La Cumparsita” its “Cultural and Popular Tango Hymn” in 2018.

Sources note: Birth date sources conflict: Wikipedia and earlier sources cite March 28, 1897; todotango and UNESCO state March 18, 1897; Wind Repertory Project lists March 27, 1897. Specific day unresolved. La Cumparsita composition date: most sources confirm 1916 (with February 8, 1916 as premiere date to Roberto Firpo), though some references list 1917 as composition year on piano at Federación de Estudiantes.