Contact with the samba wheels of Cacique de Ramos, traditional carnival block and cradle of great samba talents, changed its trajectory
Arlindo Cruz, killed on Friday (8), was one of the most important and influential names in samba history. Singer, songwriter, instrumentalist and arranger, he built a solid career and full of successes, becoming a central figure in the renewal and popularization of the genre from the 1980s. His contribution to Brazilian music is vast, with songs that have become hymns and an undeniable talent to translate daily life, love and life pain into striking melodies.
Born in 1958, in the neighborhood of Engenho Novo, in Rio de Janeiro, Arlindo grew in a musical environment, immersed on samba wheels and carnival traditions. l. At the beginning of his adult life, he followed a career in the Brazilian Air Force (FAB). However, his passion for music spoke louder. It was the contact with the samba wheels of Cacique de Ramos – traditional carnival block and cradle of great samba talents – which changed its trajectory. Dropping the Air Force to dedicate herself fully to music, Arlindo found in the chief the perfect place to develop his talent, meeting partners and masters that would lead him to join the legendary background group.
His professional journey began in full force at the backyard, one of the largest exponents of the table pagoda. Alongside icons such as Almir Guineto, Jorge Aragão and Zeca Pagodinho, he helped shape the group’s sound, introducing instruments such as Banjo Cavaquinho, an innovation that would become a trademark of the pagoda.
The unmistakable voice and the talent to compose were quickly recognized. Arlindo Cruz signs dozens of classics, many of them in partnership with long -standing friend and partner, a umbrella. His lyrics, ranging from romantic to chronic, have always been an authentic reflection of the carioca soul.
The greatest successes that marked the career of Arlindo Cruz
Arlindo Cruz’s discography is vast and full of songs that have been eternalized on samba wheels and popular imagination. His greatest successes show the artist’s versatility and genius.
- “The show has to continue”: One of the greatest hymns of the backyard and samba in general. Composed by Arlindo Cruz, Luiz Carlos da Vila and Sombrinha, the song is a true mantra of resilience and hope, being sung to this day in samba wheels and parties.
- “My place”: A declaration of love for suburb and roots, “my place” has become a hymn for residents of the peripheries of Rio. Music, which celebrates the beauty and simplicity of life in the suburb, is one of the most played and dear in its repertoire.
- “Shrimp that sleeps the wave takes”: A high party samba with a striking chorus and a letter that is a true popular saying. In partnership with Zeca Pagodinho and Beto without Arm, the song talks about the importance of being aware of opportunities and not wasting time, a classic that has become a hymn in Zeca’s voice.
- “Crazy longing”: Launched in partnership with Jorge Aragão, this song is a classic that talks about the pain of absence and the strength of memory. With a soft melody and an exciting lyrics, the music has become a timeless success.
- “Good”: This song is a portrait of daily life and the importance of doing good. A song that thrills for its simplicity and positive message.
*Report produced with the aid of AI
