Dorinha Freitas

Origin

Lorena, SP

Also known as

Maria Auxiliadora Freitas Galvão

Years Active

1956–2019

Genres

samba, bolero, samba-canção, tango

Biography

Maria Auxiliadora Freitas Galvão, known artistically as Dorinha Freitas, was a Brazilian singer born in Lorena, São Paulo, in 1937. She began her artistic journey at a young age, participating in radio programs in her hometown. Despite family opposition to her pursuing a career in music, she moved to Rio de Janeiro at 19 to pursue her dream.

Her talent was recognized in 1956 when she won a talent show on Rádio Tupi, which led to a contract with the station and later with the RGE record label. Freitas released her first record in 1958, featuring the successful samba "Fracasso." Throughout her career, she recorded over ten albums for labels such as RGE, Continental, and Copacabana, becoming known for her powerful voice and interpretations of boleros and sambas. She was a prominent voice during the final phase of the "Radio Era" in Brazil.

Dorinha Freitas was also known for her collaborations with other artists, including David de Castro. Despite facing criticism for her appearance, which sometimes limited television opportunities, she remained a respected figure in Brazilian music. Her work, though significant, is noted as still not being fully studied and rediscovered. She passed away on August 11, 2019, six days before her 82nd birthday.

Discography

• A Voz de Dorinha Freitas (1961)
• Dorinha Freitas e David de Castro – Dois Corações