Criolo

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Also known as

Criolo Doido

Genres

hip hop, rap, samba, MPB

Instruments

vocals

Biography

Kleber Cavalcante Gomes, better known as Criolo, is a prominent Brazilian singer, rapper, composer, and actor born in São Paulo. Raised in Grajaú, a neighborhood in the southern periphery of São Paulo, he began writing rap at the age of eleven under the influence of groups like Racionais MC'S and Facção Central, eventually becoming a foundational figure in the Brazilian hip-hop scene and co-founding the Rinha dos MCs.

Over the years, Criolo expanded his artistic boundaries by blending traditional rap with genres such as samba-rock, afrobeat, and reggae fusion, notably showcased in his critically acclaimed 2011 album Nó na Orelha. Throughout his career, he has collaborated and shared stages with legendary Brazilian artists such as Caetano Veloso, Mano Brown, and Milton Nascimento, earning widespread critical acclaim and multiple Latin Grammy nominations.

Beyond his contributions to hip-hop, Criolo has also embraced traditional Brazilian samba with his album Espiral de Ilusão, demonstrating his versatility as a vocalist and songwriter. His lyrical work frequently addresses social and political reflections on contemporary Brazil, cementing his status as one of the most influential and respected voices in modern Brazilian music.

Discography

• Nó na Orelha (2011)
• Criolo & Emicida – Ao Vivo (2013)
• Convoque Seu Buda (2014)
• Ivete & Criolo – Viva Tim Maia! (2015)
• Ainda Há Tempo (2016)
• Espiral de Ilusão (2017)
• Nó na Orelha (Instrumental) (2021)
• Sobre Viver (2022)
• Criolo, Amaro & Dino (2026)