Grupo Raça

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years active

1985

Genres

samba, pagode

Instruments

ganza, banjo, tanta, cavaquinho, pandeiro, repique de mao, tamborim

Biography

Grupo Raça is a Brazilian samba and pagode band formed in the Engenho de Dentro neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro in 1985. The original lineup consisted of musicians such as Marley, Marquinhos, Mongol, Ronaldinho, Totonho, Valnei, and Carlinhos, who initially gained traction performing at the Bloco Carnavalesco Chuchu court before signing with RCA.

Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, the group achieved significant commercial success and critical acclaim within the Brazilian pagode scene, alongside contemporaries like Fundo de Quintal and Exaltasamba. Their 1991 album Da África à Sapucaí featured popular tracks like "Seja Mais Você," which was included in the soundtrack of the Rede Globo telenovela Felicidade. Subsequent releases like 1992's Feito Pra Você produced radio hits that brought international recognition, leading to tours in the United States, Switzerland, and Germany, as well as prestigious accolades such as the Troféu Imprensa and Prêmio Sharp.

Despite facing losses over the years, including the passings of members Roger Mathan and founding percussionist Mongol, the group has continued to record and perform. Their enduring legacy in Brazilian popular music is marked by decades of albums, millions of records sold, and contributions to the traditional pagode movement, alongside artists like Zeca Pagodinho and Almir Guineto.