Arlindo Bettio

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years active

1940

Genres

música popular brasileira, regional

Instruments

accordion

Biography

Arlindo Bettio was a celebrated Brazilian composer, instrumentalist, and accordionist who left a significant mark on the landscape of popular Brazilian music. Known for his cheerful style on the accordion, he released several notable records throughout his career, including volumes of his popular series 'O sanfoneiro mais alegre do Brasil'. His lively performances and contributions to regional music earned him widespread recognition among fans of traditional Brazilian sounds.

Tragically, his life was cut short in October 1980 when he was kidnapped and murdered in São Paulo alongside a newly hired employee. The crime drew intense public attention, partly due to the relentless broadcasts by his brother, the famous radio host Zé Béttio, which eventually helped authorities track down the criminals in Rio de Janeiro.

Following his passing, Arlindo Bettio received several posthumous tributes from the state and local governments. A street in São Paulo, a highway in the state (SP-613), and an elementary school in Diadema were all named in honor of the beloved musician, cementing his legacy in Brazilian culture alongside contemporaries such as Zé Béttio.