Exam #2 MOB

We previously learned that it was in Nara Leao’s apartment that the Bossa Nova movement was born, but how did Nara Leao position change during the 1960s?

Originally the “muse of bossa nova,” singing about love and the ocean… In the 1960s, she shifted to protest music, becoming a voice of social issues, singing about hardship and real life in Brazil

Who is Jorge Ben? whats his biggest hit?

A Brazilian musician who blended samba with rock, funk, and other styles and helped transform Brazilian music with new sounds like electric guitar. He biggest hit was “Mas Que Nada”

who made “Mas Que Nada” a “hit” in the USA?

Sérgio Mendes

What artist is considered the greatest lyricist from this time period?

Chico Buarque

Elis Regina is considered one of the greatest singers of which musical genre

One of the greatest singers of MPB (Música Popular Brasileira)

What artist is mentioned as “the most successful pop star in Brazilian History?

Roberto Carlos and also hosted the TV show Jovem Guarda

Who are Gilberto Gil & Caetano Veloso? What happened to Caetano & Gil in 1968?

Leaders of the Tropicália movement Mixed Brazilian music with rock and global influences. They were arrested, held in prison, then forced into exile in London. This interrupted their careers in Brazil, exposed them to international music (rock, reggae, etc.) and influenced their later sound

Who are Os Mutantes?

A rock band associated with Tropicália and known for using electric guitars and experimental sounds

Who is Milton Nasciemiento? Why do they say he suffered the most under the dictatorship? What did he do about the censorship?

Milton Nascimento is a major MPB artist known for blending Brazilian styles, jazz, and influences from Black and Latin American music. He is said to have suffered the most under the dictatorship because:

• He stayed in Brazil instead of going into exile

• He faced constant censorship and pressure from the government

• The military targeted him personally, even threatening him

• He was kept away from his wife and child and warned not to visit them

To deal with the censorship, he (and other artists) used metaphors and symbolism. This allowed them to hide political messages in their music.

What is “Umbabarauma” about?

“Umbabarauma” by Jorge Ben Jor is about a powerful Black African soccer player (a striker/forward). It represents Black pride and identity, highlights connections between Brazil and Africa, reflects the growing Black consciousness movement of the 1970s, and shows Jorge Ben’s shift toward blending samba with African influences.

What city in Brazil adopted Reggae and mixed it with Samba?

Salvador, in Salvador musicians were heavily influenced by reggae (especially Bob Marley) They blended it with local samba rhythms, This created a new genre called samba-reggae

This style:

• Became a major sound of the region

• Was tied to Afro-Brazilian identity and culture

• Was popularized by groups like Olodum

What was the capital of Brazil up until 1960? What is the capital now?

Rio de Janeiro was the capital of Brazil up until 1960. The capital now is in Brasília,

What year did the military dictatorship start in Brazil?

1964

who is the father of “brazilian soul”?

Tim Maia

Explain the origins of favela funk

Baile funk originated in Rio’s favelas in the 1980s–90s, influenced by American funk and hip-hop brought by DJs and records. It developed at local dance parties (“bailes”), where these sounds were adapted into a unique Brazilian style.

Influences from other American genres did favela funk have?

favela funk is heavily influenced by American genres like funk, soul, hip-hop, and Miami bass. Artists like James Brown shaped its rhythm and groove, while hip-hop and groups like 2 Live Crew influenced its beats, bass, and lyrical style, helping define both its sound and party culture.

what were the typical instruments used in favela funk?

favela funk primarily uses electronic drum machines, digital beats, and heavy bass lines. A key feature is the tamborzão rhythm, along with samples of congas and hand drums.

How would you describe the singing style used in Funk Carioca?

Funk Carioca vocals are performed by MCs and focus on rhythm over melody. The style is chant-like, using call-and-response, and is usually spoken or rapped rather than sung, often energetic, aggressive, and explicit.

What is Forró? Where did it come from?

Forró is an upbeat Brazilian music and dance genre, usually performed in pairs and connected to social gatherings and festivals, blending folk traditions with danceable rhythms. It originated in Northeast Brazil (especially Pernambuco) and developed from African, Indigenous, and European influences.

What are forro songs about?

Forró songs often focus on rural life, including drought, poverty, and migration in Northeast Brazil. They also express emotions like homesickness and love.

What instruments are associated with forro?

Traditional forró uses three main instruments: the accordion, triangle, and zabumba (a type of drum)

How does forro compare to Samba?

Both forró and samba are Brazilian genres influenced by African and European traditions. Forró comes from the Northeast and uses accordion-based instruments, while samba comes from Rio de Janeiro and focuses more on percussion; forró is danced in pairs, while samba is often performed in groups, especially during Carnival.

Does “forró” mean anything in English?

The exact meaning of “forró” but it is debated to mean party or lively gathering. Overall, it is best understood as referring to a festive dance event.

Who is Luiz Gonzaga?

Luiz Gonzaga is known as the “King of Forró” and played a major role in popularizing the genre across Brazil. In the 1940s and 1950s, he helped define its signature sound and brought it to national attention. His music often reflected the struggles and culture of Northeast Brazil.