Carlos Dafé

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years Active

1960s–2020s

Genres

soul, samba-soul, MPB, funk, jazz, latin

Instruments

accordion, vibraphone, vocals, acoustic guitar, organ, synthesizer, electric piano

Biography

Carlos Dafé, born José Carlos de Sousa, is a seminal figure in Brazilian soul music, often hailed as "The Prince of Soul." Born in Rio de Janeiro in 1947, Dafé's musical journey began early, influenced by his father, a chorinho player, and his mother, a poet. He started studying music at the Conservatory of Music at age 11 and was playing professionally by 14, mastering instruments like the accordion and vibraphone. His early career in the 1960s saw him honing his skills as a crooner in nightclubs across São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, developing a vocal style that would become his trademark.

Dafé's career gained significant momentum in the 1970s as he became a key architect of the "Black Rio" movement, a cultural phenomenon that fused American soul and funk with Afro-Brazilian rhythms. He was part of the group Fuzi 9, touring internationally, and his compositions began to be recorded by prominent artists such as Tim Maia. His debut solo album, "Pra que Vou Recordar," released in 1977, is considered a landmark of Brazilian soul, featuring the hit "Pra que Vou Recordar o que Chorei." Subsequent albums like "Venha Matar Saudades" (1978), with Banda Black Rio, further solidified his status.

Throughout his extensive career, Carlos Dafé has not only released acclaimed solo albums but has also written songs for many other artists, including Tânia Maria and Nana Caymmi. His music, characterized by its smooth delivery, rich baritone voice, and sophisticated arrangements, continues to resonate. In recent years, he has collaborated with contemporary artists like Adrian Younge, releasing new material that bridges his classic sound with modern production. Dafé's enduring legacy is cemented by his pioneering role in Brazilian soul music and his consistent contribution to the MPB landscape.

Discography

• Pra que Vou Recordar (1977)
• Dois Momentos (1977)
• Venha Matar Saudades (1978)
• Malandro Dengoso (1979)
• De Repente (1983)
• O Trem da Gente (1985)
• Bem-vindo ao Baile (2016)
• Adrian Younge / Ali Shaheed Muhammad / Antonio Carlos e Jocafi / Carlos Dafé / Hyldon / Joyce Moreno / Tutty Moreno / Ebo Taylor / Dom Salvador / The Midnight Hour – Jazz Is Dead 21 (2024)
• Carlos Dafé, Adrian Younge – Jazz Is Dead 25 (2025)
• Carlos Dafé JID025 (2025)
• O Seu Jeito de Olhar