Demônios da Garoa

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years active

1943

Genres

samba

Instruments

violão, afoxé, tantã, pandeiro

Biography

The group Demônios da Garoa emerged in the city of São Paulo, in the Mooca neighborhood, in 1943, initially under the name Grupo do Luar, founded by Arnaldo Rosa. The adoption of their current name came from a listener's suggestion in a contest promoted by Rádio Bandeirantes, endorsed by announcer Vicente Leporace. The original lineup featured names such as Arnaldo Rosa, Antônio and Benedito Espanha, Waldemar Pezuol, Zezinho, and Bruno Michelucci, marking the country's musical history with a long-lived trajectory dedicated to São Paulo samba.

One of the most notable moments in the ensemble's history occurred in 1949, when they met the renowned composer Adoniran Barbosa during the filming of O Cangaceiro. This partnership resulted in eternal classics of Brazilian popular music, highlighting "Trem das Onze," elected the symbolic song of São Paulo, as well as hits like "Saudosa Maloca," "Iracema," and "Tiro ao Álvaro." Throughout decades on the road, the group incorporated new members and collaborated with several renowned artists, such as Dudu Nobre, Péricles, Xande de Pilares, and Arnaldo Antunes.

In 1994, Demônios da Garoa entered the Guinness Book as the oldest active vocal ensemble in Brazil, later celebrating historic milestones such as their 80 years of career with special projects and live recordings. The group consolidated itself as one of the pillars of São Paulo's popular culture, keeping alive the tradition of humorous and authentic samba that has marked generations.