Celio Roberto

Origin

Maceió, AL

Also known as

O Cigano

Years Active

1960–2025

Genres

brega, música popular brasileira, romântico

Biography

Célio Roberto, also known as "O Cigano" (The Gypsy), was a Brazilian singer and composer born in Maceió, Alagoas, on September 15, 1945. He passed away on July 25, 2025, in São Paulo at the age of 79. Roberto was a prominent figure in Brazilian popular music, particularly in the brega genre, known for his romantic style and colorful stage presence, which earned him his nickname.

He began his artistic career in the 1960s, achieving his greatest success with the song "Não toque essa música" (Don't play this song), which sold 250,000 copies. Roberto also composed "Rock do Jegue," a major hit for Genival Lacerda, and was the first artist to record "Entre Tapas e Beijos" (Between Slaps and Kisses), a song that later became a hit for the duo Leandro & Leonardo. Throughout his career, he released numerous LPs, compact discs, and CDs, solidifying his place in Brazilian music history.

Roberto's discography includes albums such as "Não toque essa música," "Homem de pedra," "Minha confissão," and "Quero teu amor." He received three gold records for his LPs "Não toque esta música," "Homem de pedra," and "Minha confissão." Beyond his own recordings, he also ventured into gospel music and was recognized with the "O melhor da noite de São Paulo" (The best of the São Paulo night) award for his song "A canção dos Êxodos." His music often evoked themes of love and passion, resonating with a wide audience across South America.