Barrerito

Origin

São Fidélis, RJ

Also known as

Élcio Neves Borges

Genres

sertanejo, musica sertaneja, música raiz

Instruments

vocals, acoustic guitar, viola caipira

Biography

Barrerito, born Élcio Neves Borges in São Fidélis, was a renowned Brazilian singer, guitarist, and viola player who left an indelible mark on the sertanejo genre. He began his musical career in the 1960s, performing alongside various artists before co-founding the legendary sertanejo ensemble Trio Parada Dura in 1976 alongside Creone and Mangabinha. His career faced a profound challenge in 1982 when a plane crash left him paraplegic, leading to a period where he felt alienated by his peers, though his brother Parrerito temporarily stepped in to help.

Embracing a successful solo career as the "Cantor das Andorinhas," Barrerito released numerous albums under labels like Copacabana and RGE, accumulating dozens of gold and platinum records. Known for his astonishing recording speed and distinctive personal style, he continued to innovate and later formed the short-lived Trio Alto Astral in 1997 with Voninho and Creone. He passed away in Belo Horizonte in 1998, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that influenced subsequent generations of sertanejo artists.

His musical contributions extended through his extensive discography and enduring hits such as "Onde Estão os Meus Passos" and "O Cantor das Andorinhas." Collaborating with notable figures and maintaining deep ties within the traditional Brazilian country music community, Barrerito remains an iconic figure alongside peers like Teodoro. His legacy continues to be celebrated through archival releases and tributes by his descendants in the music world.