Edvaldo Santana

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Also known as

Edvaldo de Santana Braga

Years active

1970

Genres

mpb, vanguarda paulistana

Instruments

guitar, vocals

Biography

Edvaldo Santana is a Brazilian singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and music producer born in São Paulo. During the 1970s, he formed the group Caaxió with friends Fernando Teles, Luciano Bongo, and Zé Bores, which later became Matéria Prima after signing with a record label. The band released their self-titled debut album in 1975, featuring the hit song "Maria Gasolina."

Around this time, Santana formed a close friendship with fellow musician Tom Zé, who introduced him to the influential Vanguarda Paulistana movement. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with a wide range of notable poets and musicians, including Paulo Leminski, Haroldo de Campos, and Arnaldo Antunes.

Transitioning into his solo career, Santana released his debut solo album, Lobo Solitário, in 1993, followed by a steady output of independent and label-backed projects. His later works include albums such as Tá Assustado?, Reserva da Alegria, Jataí, and Só vou chegar mais tarde, solidifying his unique voice in Brazilian popular music.