This day (January 19, 1982), in São Paulo, Brazil, died Elis Regina, an important singer of Brazilian popular music .
Tracklist :
1 . Águas de Março
2 . Madalena (1979)
3 . w/ Milton Nascimento – Caxangá (1976)
4 . Tatuagem (1976)
5 . Como Nossos Pais
6 . Cadeira Vazia (1973)
7 . Upa Neguinho (1968)
Tracklist :
Como Nossos Pais . Madalena . Águas De Março . Romaria . Canto De Ossanha . Só Tinha De Ser Com Você . Nada Será Como Antes . Corcovado . Corrida De Jangada . Zazueira .
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Elis Regina, born Elis Regina Carvalho Costa in Porto Alegre, Brazil, on March 17, 1945, is a renowned Brazilian singer celebrated for her powerful voice, passionate interpretations, and unique stage presence.
Elis is the first daughter in a family of seven and is cherished by her family.
Her father, Romeu de Oliveira Costa, is a calm and reserved man, while her mother is more extroverted, an excellent cook, and a skilled seamstress.
From a young age, Elis shows an interest in music, drawing inspiration from radio broadcasts and singers like Francisco Alves and Marlene.
At 11, she begins singing publicly on the children’s radio program “Clube do Guri” in Porto Alegre, initially shy but soon becoming a regular performer.
She also works as the secretary of the “Clube do Guri” program.
Elis is highly disciplined and demanding of herself.
She initially plans to become a history teacher.
She starts singing at dances and signs her first singing contract with Rádio Gaúcha.
At 15, she records her first album, a rock and roll record for Continental, imitating Celly Campelo, a choice she dislikes as she wants to chart her own path.
Rise to Prominence
In 1964, Elis moves to Rio de Janeiro, a city she calls the first step of her musical career.
She gains popularity through performances at venues like Beco das Garrafas in Copacabana, collaborating with musician and journalist Ronaldo Bôscoli.
She becomes a major television attraction.
In 1965, her performance at the first Brazilian Popular Music Festival with the song “Arrastão” by Edu Lobo and Vinícius de Moraes turns her into a national celebrity despite her pre-performance nerves.
Her career takes off after leaving Porto Alegre, making her a national star within a year.
She co-hosts the television show “O Fino da Bossa” with Jair Rodrigues, performing songs by various composers.
She introduces new composers like Gilberto Gil and Milton Nascimento to her audience.
Elis consistently promotes new composers with each album.
She records works by many composers, including Gilberto Gil, whom she describes as the most complete of modern composers.
Elis emphasizes the importance of collaboration between performers and songwriters, believing they need one another.
Musical Style and Personality
Elis possesses a powerful and expressive voice paired with a commanding stage presence.
She is renowned for her dramatic and emotional performances.
Her repertoire spans bossa nova, samba, and MPB (Brazilian Popular Music), always adding her personal touch.
Elis believes music should be sophisticated yet rooted in popular traditions so people can relate to and sing it.
She views music as more than entertainment, seeing it as an art form.
She critiques the lack of creativity in the music industry and the commercialization of music.
Elis asserts that music should transcend commercial success and prioritize artistic value.
She is known for being bold, outspoken, and unafraid to challenge norms.
Personal Life
Elis has a tumultuous relationship with Ronaldo Bôscoli, whom she marries and has a son, João Marcelo Bôscoli, with.
Their public disputes include dramatic episodes like her throwing Bôscoli’s Frank Sinatra records out the window.
Later, she partners with pianist César Camargo Mariano, with whom she has two children, Pedro Mariano and Maria Rita.
César becomes her most significant musical collaborator.
Social and Political Engagement
Elis uses her music to address social and political issues, particularly during Brazil’s military dictatorship.
Her song “O Bêbado e a Equilibrista” becomes an anthem for amnesty for exiles and political prisoners.
She highlights the importance of music as a medium for storytelling and historical commentary.
Elis supports the creativity of new artists and independent music production.
She critiques the music industry’s tendency to view artists as mere commodities.
Later Years and Legacy
In January 1982, Elis prepares for a new show and album, expressing a desire to create fresh arrangements after nine years without César Camargo Mariano as her musical partner.
On January 19, 1982, she tragically dies at 36 from a cocaine and alcohol overdose, leaving behind an invaluable cultural legacy.
She leaves three children, João Marcelo, Pedro, and Maria Rita, who all follow her footsteps in music.
Her recordings remain a testament to her artistry, resonating with audiences across generations.
Elis Regina is considered one of Brazil’s greatest singers, with a body of work that continues to inspire artists and audiences alike.
Photo : Amazon
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