Cacique & Pajé

Origin

Rondonópolis, MT

Genres

sertaneja, música raiz, caipira

Instruments

viola caipira, acoustic guitar, vocals

Biography

Cacique & Pajé is an iconic Brazilian sertaneja root music duo formed by Antônio Borges de Alvarenga (Cacique) and Roque Pereira Paiva (Pajé). Born along the banks of the Rio Vermelho, the founders were raised in indigenous communities before being adopted by cattle drovers during a yellow fever epidemic. After performing under various pseudonyms and configurations, they officially established the duo Cacique e Pajé in 1978, adopting a name suggested by legendary duo Tonico & Tinoco after a historic performance at the Theatro Municipal in São Paulo.

Throughout their career, the duo became celebrated for their authentic style of traditional viola music, releasing numerous successful LPs with standout tracks such as "Pescador e Catireiro", "Caçando e Pescando", and "O Milagre do Batismo". They also collaborated with prominent Brazilian artists, notably participating in Taiguara's 1983 album Canções de Amor e Liberdade on the track "Voz do Leste". Their deep connection to indigenous roots and rural Brazilian culture cemented their status as pioneers of traditional sertaneja music.

Following health struggles and the passing of the original Pajé in 1994, the group underwent several lineup changes, with Cacique eventually continuing the legacy alongside Geraldo Aparecido da Silva, who became the new Pajé in 1997. The duo has continued to record and perform, preserving the rich traditions of viola modas for new generations of fans. Their enduring influence aligns them with other pillars of Brazilian folk and sertaneja history, sharing artistic affinity with performers like Sérgio Reis and Carreirinho.