Cassiano

Origin

Campina Grande, PB

Also known as

Genival Cassiano dos Santos

Years Active

1964–1991

Genres

soul, funk, black music, MPB, bossa nova

Instruments

vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar

Biography

Cassiano was born in Campina Grande, Paraíba, in 1943, but moved to Rio de Janeiro in his childhood, where he learned his first chords from his father. He began his artistic career in the 1960s as a classical/acoustic guitarist for Bossa Trio and later founded the group Os Diagonais alongside his brother Camarão and his friend Amaro. His talent as a songwriter and guitarist soon caught the attention of other exponents of national music, establishing key partnerships and establishing himself as one of the great pioneers of soul music and funk in the country, alongside names like Tim Maia and Hyldon.

Throughout his solo career, Cassiano released striking albums such as Imagem e Som, Apresentamos nosso Cassiano, and Cuban Soul: 18 Kilates, a work that propelled the artist to mainstream success through hits like "A Lua e Eu" and "Coleção". In addition to his own discography, he composed classics immortalized in the voice of Tim Maia, such as "Primavera (Vai Chuva)" and "Eu Amo Você". His later works featured collaboration and reverence from established artists of the new generation, such as Sandra de Sá, Ed Motta, Claudio Zoli, Djavan, Luiz Melodia, and Marisa Monte.

Severe respiratory problems and disagreements with the record industry negatively marked the progress of his career from the late 1970s onwards, culminating in his seclusion in the final decades of his life. Even away from the stage and major studios, Cassiano remained a legendary and revered figure in Brazilian black music. The artist passed away in May 2021, leaving an indelible legacy in Brazil's popular music.

Discography

• Imagem e Som (1971)
• Apresentamos Nosso Cassiano (1973)
• Cuban Soul: 18 Kilates (1976)
• Cedo ou Tarde (1991)