His first hit, "Recuerdo" (1921- written previously when he was barely a teenager). He made impact the sound and feel of Tango for five decades beginning with "La Yumba" in 1943. You can hear his influence in almost every arranger's work since the start of the 20's.

His first orchestra was formed 1943. He was black-listed because of his Communist Party card. And yes, he was jailed for a few months (his orchestra would perform without him but they would always lay a red rose over the piano to indicate his absence) for such iniquities as paying his side-men the same amount as he was paid.

To his eternal honor, it must be said that having the courage of his convictions kept Pugliese from ever lowering his standards and bowing to pressure from record companies.

In the hard-core of Tango, he's the hard stuff. If he is an acquired taste, which alone indicates how deep Tango is into people. A night without Pugliese is like having a pizza without cheese. As the milonga grows in the night, Pugliese is a must!

"Nochero Soy" is one that raises adrenaline. "Pata Ancha" is another, "Gallo Ciego", "Emancipacion".... There is a long list! All the passion life comes rushing to your skin when Pugliese comes on with his signature storm.

Osvaldo made great music right up to the end of his long and wonderful creative life. "Desde El Alma" is one of the sweetest things you'll ever hear.

Others recordings include: Adios Bardi, Amurado, Barra Querida, Canaro En Paris, Corrientes, Esmeralda, Derecho Viejo, El Abrojito, El Arranque, El Buscapie, El Monito.