Carlos Cezar e Cristiano

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Also known as

Carlos Cesar e Cristiano

Years Active

1979–1989

Genres

sertanejo

Instruments

acoustic guitar, vocals

Biography

Carlos Cézar e Cristiano was a sertanejo duo formed in the late 1970s in São Paulo. The duo consisted of Carlos Cézar (João Carlos Cezar Dorácio, 1942-2002) and Cristiano (Antonio Caires Dourado, b. 1955). Carlos Cézar was a talented composer, instrumentalist, and producer, known for his ease in creating melodies and lyrics, often in partnership with José Fortuna. Together, they composed over a hundred songs recorded by various renowned sertanejo music artists, such as Sérgio Reis, Chitãozinho & Xororó, and Tião Carreiro & Pardinho. Cristiano, in turn, stood out for his exceptional and vibrant voice.

The formation of the duo happened spontaneously during a gathering of friends, where the vocal harmony between Carlos Cézar and Cristiano proved remarkable. They were nicknamed "Os Cowboys Andarilhos" and "A Nova Maravilha Sertaneja", recognized for their innovative style, which blended traditional sertanejo with original elements in their interpretation, instrumentation, and visual style. The duo achieved great success, drawing crowds to their performances.

The peak of the duo's career occurred in the early 1980s, with their victory at Rádio Record's Festival da Música Sertaneja in 1981, with the song "O Vai e Vem do Carreiro", composed by Carlos Cézar and José Fortuna. Throughout their journey, Carlos Cézar e Cristiano released more than ten albums, consolidating a repertoire that soundtracked many journeys and evoked nostalgia all over Brazil. Following the passing of Carlos Cézar in 2002, Cristiano continued his solo career, releasing a CD in tribute to his partner.