Cyro Monteiro

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years Active

1933–1973

Genres

samba, MPB

Instruments

voice, matchbox

Biography

Cyro Monteiro was born in Rio de Janeiro in 1913 and established himself as one of the great names in Brazilian popular music. He began his artistic journey performing at neighborhood parties and on Rádio Clube do Brasil, initially forming a duo with his brother Careno and establishing family ties with other exponents of the era, such as Cauby Peixoto. Throughout his career, he stood out not only for his voice, but also for his rhythmic innovation by accompanying himself with a matchbox.

In the 1930s, he joined the cast of important broadcasting stations such as Rádio Mayrink Veiga and recorded major hits, among them the classic "Se Acaso Você Chegasse", composed by Lupicínio Rodrigues and Felisberto Martins. His artistic versatility led him to work as a composer and participate in prominent theatrical productions, such as the play Orfeu da Conceição, written by Vinicius de Moraes. Even while facing severe pulmonary problems in the 1950s that partially kept him away from the stage, he returned with full force in the 1960s with striking albums and appearances on television programs essential for the dissemination of samba and bossa nova.

Recognized by great poets and composers as one of the country's greatest interpreters, Cyro Monteiro passed away in 1973, leaving an indelible legacy in the history of samba and Brazilian music. His work dialogues with the tradition of great radio singers, influencing generations of artists who would shape Brazil's musical identity.

Discography

• A Bossa de Sempre (1960)
• Sr. Samba (1961)
• A Bossa Eterna de Elizeth e Cyro (1966)
• A Bossa Eterna de Elizeth e Cyro (Vol. 2) (1969)
• Meu samba, minha Vida (1969)
• Alô, Jovens "Tio" Cyro Monteiro Canta Samba dos Sobrinhos (1970)
• Carnaval de Ouro: Anos 40 (1977)
• Sambas dos Anos 40 (1988)
• Mestre do Samba (2004)
• Boogie Woogie na Favela - Samba do Cyro Monteiro (2022)
• Sambas (2023)
• Meu Bem - Rio Sambas (2024)