Jauperi Lázaro dos Santos

Origin

Salvador, BA

Also known as

Jau

Years active

1988

Genres

samba, reggae, axé, MPB

Instruments

vocals, guitar

Biography

Jauperi Lázaro dos Santos, known professionally as Jau, is a Brazilian singer and songwriter who emerged from the vibrant music scene of Salvador, Bahia. He began his musical journey at the age of 17, achieving recognition when he won the "Best Composition" award at the "Festival de Música e Artes do Olodum" (FEMADUM) for his song "Olodum sonho e profecia." This early success led him to join the renowned Afro-bloc Olodum and its main band, where he honed his skills and gained valuable experience performing internationally.

In 2005, Jau, alongside former Olodum bandmate Pierre Onassis, founded the band Afrodisíaco, which later became known as Vixe Mainha due to a legal dispute over the name. This project allowed Jau to further explore his musical style, incorporating elements of symphonic music and instruments like violins and wind instruments. His compositions "Já é" and "Café com Pão" achieved significant success during this period. Jau also contributed to the soundtrack of the film "Ó Paí, Ó," performing "É D'Oxum" and the film's theme song alongside Caetano Veloso.

Throughout his career, Jau has released several solo albums, including "Balancê" (1993), "Ifá" (1999), "Aplausos para o sol" (2011), and "Lázaro" (2015). His music often blends elements of samba, reggae, and axé, reflecting his Bahian roots while incorporating diverse influences. Jau's work has been recognized with awards such as the Troféu Cata-Vento for "Revelation Artist of the Year." He continues to be an active and influential voice in Brazilian popular music, celebrated for his songwriting and dynamic performances.