Dora Lopes

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Also known as

Dora Freitas Lopes

Years active

1947–1983

Genres

samba, samba-canção, bolero, marcha-rancho, música popular brasileira

Instruments

voz

Biography

Dora Lopes, artistic name of Dora Freitas Lopes, was a Brazilian singer and songwriter born in Rio de Janeiro on November 6, 1922. From an early age she showed an interest in music, running away from home at the age of 14 to pursue an artistic career, which went against her family's wishes. Her journey in Brazilian popular music truly began in 1947, when she participated in Ary Barroso's famous talent show, achieving great prominence.

Her career took off after participating in Ary Barroso's show, and she recorded her first album the following year. Throughout her career, Dora Lopes released several 78 rpm records and LPs, establishing herself as a versatile artist. She also stood out as a songwriter, with hits like "Samba da Madrugada" and "Pó-de-Mico", showing her talent in different branches of Brazilian music, such as samba, samba-canção, and marcha-rancho.

Dora Lopes worked intensely in the nightlife of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, where she later resided. Despite having scored hits and gained recognition in her time, her later career was marked by financial difficulties and a certain obscurity. She passed away in São Paulo on December 24, 1983, leaving an important legacy in Brazilian popular music, with works that are still remembered today by connoisseurs of the genre.