Aírton Pimentel

Origin

Bagé, RS

Years Active

1962–2020

Genres

regional gaúcho, nativista, MPB

Instruments

voice, guitar

Biography

Aírton Pimentel da Silveira was a prominent Brazilian singer, composer, and poet, born in Bagé, Rio Grande do Sul, on October 17, 1938. He is celebrated for his significant contributions to Gaúcho regional music, though his creative output extended beyond this genre, showcasing his skill as a melodist and a keen observer of daily life.

Pimentel began his musical journey as a founding member of the group "Os Araganos" in the early 1960s, which was recognized as one of the best Gaúcho vocal groups of its time. He later embarked on a successful solo career, releasing albums such as "Menestrel" (1974), "Gaúcho ao Pé da Letra" (1982), which achieved record sales, and "Alegria dos Pampas" (1994). His work also extended to film, as he composed the soundtrack for "Um Certo Capitão Rodrigo" in 1970, a film based on the literary work of Érico Veríssimo.

Throughout his career, Pimentel was a prolific songwriter, penning classics like "Negro da Gaita," "Rancho da Estrada," and "Missal das Reses." He was also a founding member of the Union of Composers of Rio Grande do Sul and was recognized with the Prêmio Açorianos for Best Regional Music Composer in 2011. Aírton Pimentel passed away on March 21, 2020, in Porto Alegre, leaving behind a rich legacy in Brazilian music.

Discography

• Airton Pimentel (1974)
• Gaúcho ao Pé da Letra (1974)
• Alegria dos Pampas (1995)