Brazilian music has produced world-famous artists in a multitude of genres, from metal and funk to bossa nova and classical music. Here are five Brazilian artists you really need to know (and listen to).
João Gilberto (Bossa Nova)
The nuanced fusion of samba and jazz known as Bossa Nova wouldn’t have achieved its current status without the iconic musician João Gilberto. Hailing from 1931, Gilberto revolutionized Brazilian music during the 1950s through his understated style and gentle, close-up vocals. The album “Chega de Saudade,” released in 1959, is commonly considered the definitive launchpad for the Bossa Nova genre.
João Gilberto’s impact is immense, extending beyond Brazil to have global significance, largely due to his work with Stan Getz on tracks such as “The Girl from Ipanema.” This composition went on to become one of the most celebrated musical successes ever.
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Sepultura (Metal)
Undoubtedly, Sepultura stands as Brazil’s most impactful metal band ever. Established in 1984 in Belo Horizonte, this four-piece group gained international recognition through their potent fusion of thrash, death metal, and traditional Brazilian rhythms. Their albums “Arise” from 1991 and “Chaos A.D.” released two years later became pivotal releases within the genre. These records combined intense energy with strong social and political messages, leaving an indelible mark on heavy metal.
Sepultura’s music is firmly grounded in the realities of Brazil, tackling subjects such as violence, poverty, and the challenges faced by indigenous populations. Through the integration of tribal drumming and African musical patterns into their work, they developed a distinctive style that still echoes strongly among enthusiasts of heavy and alternative genres today.
Heitor Villa-Lobos (classical music)
Born in 1887 in
Rio de Janeiro
Heitor Villa-Lobos stands as one of Brazil’s most eminent composers ever. His classical compositions blend elements from Brazilian folklore with European musical techniques.
One of his best-known compositions, Bachianas Brasileiras, honors the renowned German composer Johann Sebastian Bach but also features distinctively Brazilian tunes and rhythms. Throughout his prolific career, Villa-Lobos created more than two thousand works across multiple genres including choral pieces, operas, and chamber music.
Racionais MC’s (Rap)
Brazilian hip-hop cannot be discussed without mentioning Racionais MC’s, a collective established in 1988 that significantly influenced the genre through their potent messages and verses addressing social inequalities. Made up of members such as Mano Brown, Ice Blue, Edi Rock, and DJ KL Jay, this ensemble emerged as the mouthpiece for marginalized populations residing in the slums of São Paulo.
Their album “Sobrevivendo no Inferno” (1997) stands as a cornerstone of Brazilian hip-hop. It vividly depicts the grim truths of existence in impoverished areas and tackles subjects like racism, police brutality, and economic hardship. The album left an indelible mark beyond just music; it stirred social awareness and ignited political engagement amongst numerous young Brazilians.
Anitta (Brazilian Pop Funk)
In a decidedly modern twist, Anitta has emerged as a symbol of funk carioca and pop music. She was born in 1993 in Rio de Janeiro.
Rio de Janeiro
She has topped both national and worldwide charts with tracks such as “Vai Malandra” and “Me Gusta.” Her musical style merges elements of Brazilian funk, reggaeton, and pop, highlighting the global impact of Brazilian sounds.
However, Anitta is not merely a vocalist; she is also a shrewd entrepreneur and a symbol of contemporary Brazil. Leveraging social media effectively, she has boosted her worldwide appeal and has worked alongside global celebrities like J Balvin, Cardi B, and Madonna.
