Cacúla e Mariano

Origin

Piracicaba, SP

Years Active

1929

Genres

sertanejo, caipira music, moda de viola

Instruments

viola, accordion

Biography

Cacúla e Mariano was an influential sertanejo duo formed by brothers Mariano da Silva and Rubens da Silva, both born in Piracicaba, São Paulo. Discovered by journalist and folklorist Cornélio Pires, they were invited to join "Turma Caipira", a musical group aimed at promoting the culture of Brazil's interior. In 1929, the duo recorded "Jorginho do Sertão", considered the first commercially recorded moda de viola in the history of Brazilian sertanejo music, a milestone that paved the way for future generations of artists in the genre.

Throughout their career, Cacúla e Mariano released around ten records and various modas de viola, such as "O Bonde Camarão", "Sô Cabocro Brasilero" and "A Briga dos Véio". They also stood out as songwriters, with self-penned songs like "A Juriti" and "Nhô Tudeco". The duo achieved great prestige in the mid-1930s, participating in recordings and events that solidified caipira music on the national scene.

The legacy of Cacúla e Mariano transcends their era. Mariano was the father of Caçulinha, a renowned accordionist and composer who followed in the footsteps of his father and uncle, becoming a familiar figure on Brazilian television. The duo's trajectory represents the essence of roots sertanejo music, with its simple stories, authentic melodies, and a deep bond with the culture of the interior, keeping the caipira tradition alive for new generations.