Diésis dos Anjos Gaia

Origin

Jacareí, SP

Also known as

Ranchinho

Years active

1928–1965

Genres

música sertaneja, música caipira, humor

Biography

Diésis dos Anjos Gaia, better known as Ranchinho, was born in Jacareí, São Paulo, on May 23, 1913. From an early age, he showed an aptitude for music, performing melodies by composers such as Cândido das Neves. His musical career gained momentum when he met Murilo Alvarenga, with whom he formed the iconic sertaneja duo "Alvarenga & Ranchinho" in 1928. Together, they began their artistic journey in circuses, presenting an innovative style of sertaneja music that soon won over the public. The duo stood out not only for their musical talent, but also for their ability to create comedic sketches and political satires, which earned them the nickname "The Millionaires of Laughter" ("Os Milionários do Riso").

In 1936, Alvarenga & Ranchinho moved to Rio de Janeiro, where they recorded their first album and were hired by Rádio Tupi. Their popularity grew exponentially, leading them to perform at the renowned Cassino da Urca for ten years. During this period, the duo refined their satirical repertoire, which frequently addressed political themes, even bothering the government of the time and resulting in arrests. In addition to music and humor, Ranchinho also acted in films in the 1930s and 1940s, participating in productions such as "Fazendo Fita" and "Tererê Não Resolve".

The duo Alvarenga & Ranchinho had a long and remarkable career, with a few separations and returns over the years. Diésis dos Anjos Gaia, the original Ranchinho, left the duo permanently in 1965, being replaced by other artists. After his departure, he even created a film company in the 1950s and moved to São Paulo. Ranchinho passed away on July 5, 1991, at the age of 78, in São Vicente, on the coast of São Paulo, leaving an important legacy in sertaneja music and Brazilian humor, with his unforgettable partnership alongside Murilo Alvarenga.