Haroldo Barbosa

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years active

1935–1979

Genres

samba, marchinha, mpb

Biography

Haroldo Barbosa was a renowned Brazilian composer, journalist, and humorist born in Rio de Janeiro. During his childhood, he developed close friendships with iconic figures of Brazilian music such as Noel Rosa, Almirante, Braguinha, and Araci de Almeida, which deeply influenced his artistic path. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he penned over three hundred Portuguese-language versions of foreign songs and authored numerous musical and comedic hits.

In addition to his prolific songwriting—partnering with various composers on successes like Mesa de Bar, Isso não se Aprende na Escola, and De Conversa em Conversa—Barbosa made a significant mark in radio and television. Working at major stations like Rádio Nacional, Rádio Tupi, and Rádio Mayrink Veiga, he wrote radionovelas and created the foundational concept for the famous comedy show Escolinha do Professor Raimundo alongside Chico Anysio.

His television career flourished starting in 1957 on TV Rio, later extending to TV Excelsior and Rede Globo, where he formed a celebrated writing partnership with Max Nunes. He contributed to legendary comedy programs including Chico Anísio Show, Satiricom, and O Planeta dos Homens, while also maintaining a long-running turf journalism column for O Globo. Barbosa passed away in Rio de Janeiro in 1979 at the age of 64, leaving behind a rich legacy in Brazilian popular culture and humor.