Bill Farr

Origin

Sapucaia, RJ

Also known as

Antônio Medeiros Francisco

Years active

1952–1961

Genres

samba, bolero, marcha, fox, cançoneta, fox-polca, samba canção, valsas

Biography

Antônio Medeiros Francisco, known artistically as Bill Farr, was born in Sapucaia, Rio de Janeiro, on October 30, 1925. He spent his childhood in Petrópolis, where, while still a student, he organized a vocal group. After completing his scientific education, he entered the artistic career, starting as a crooner at Hotel Quitandinha, performing Brazilian and international songs.

With the help of César de Alencar, Bill Farr began working at Rádio Nacional in Rio de Janeiro, participating in programs such as "Gente Nova", "Programa César de Alencar", "Um Milhão de Melodias", and "Orquestra Melódica". He also joined Ferreira Filho's orchestra as a crooner. His recording career began in 1952, with the release of "Abraça-me" and "Depois do Amor" through the Sinter label. That same year, he debuted in cinema as an actor in films like "Barnabé, Tu És Meu" and "Carnaval Atlântida", being launched as a national heartthrob.

Throughout his career, he recorded several hits, including "Mulher de Trinta", "Tomara que caia", "Vai saudade", "Oh" (with a version by Haroldo Barbosa), "Podem falar", "Tira a boca do caminho", "A casa do Nicola", "O que é amar", "Bate o bife" (with Emilinha Borba), "Vamos beber", "Não me jogue fora", "Eu não existo sem você", and "Manhã de Carnaval". In the late 1950s, he traded his artistic career for foreign trade, moving to Madrid, Spain. Bill Farr passed away in Rio de Janeiro on September 13, 2010.