Juan D'Arienzo (1900-1976) was known as "El Rey del Compas" (King of the Beat). Departing from other orchestras of the golden age, D'Arienzo returned to the 2x4 feel that characterized music of the old guard, but he used more modern arrangements and instrumentation. His popular group produced hundreds of recordings.

His music is played often at milongas in Buenos Aires, and the instrumentals are the classic harder rhythmic tangos with a strong staccato dance rhythm. He also recorded many great milongas and fast valses.

On his passing in 1976, Juan D'Arienzo was interred in the Cementerio de la Chacarita in Buenos Aires, Argentina.