Jefferson Gonçalves

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years Active

1992

Genres

blues, MPB, country blues, folk, funk blues, forró, baião, xaxado, maracatu

Instruments

harmonica

Biography

Jefferson Gonçalves da Costa, known artistically as Jefferson Gonçalves, is a renowned Brazilian harmonica player and composer, born in Rio de Janeiro on February 21, 1970. His musical career began in 1992, when he founded the band Baseado em Blues, with which he released three albums: "Baseado em Blues" (1996), "Madrugada Blues" (1999), and "Um Acústico Baseado em Blues" (2000). His skill on the harmonica led him to represent Brazil at international events, such as SPAH (Society for the Preservation and Advancement of the Harmonica) in Detroit in 1998, where he performed alongside musicians like German artist Chris Jones.

Throughout his career, Jefferson Gonçalves has consolidated a unique musical style that blends North American black music with Brazilian northeastern rhythms, such as baião, xaxado, and maracatu. This fusion of genres results in an authentic and vibrant sound that has enchanted audiences in several countries, including performances at renowned blues venues like the Blue Note in New York and the San Martin Theater in Buenos Aires. He has also collaborated with various Brazilian artists, such as Belchior, Victor Biglione, and Celso Blues Boy, in addition to touring with American harmonica player Peter Madcat Ruth.

In 2004, he released his first solo album, "Gréia", which featured the participation of renowned musicians like Airto Moreira and Norton Buffalo. Jefferson Gonçalves is widely recognized as one of the leading references for the harmonica in Brazil and around the world, being praised for his technique, creativity, and ability to innovate and promote dialogues between different musical styles. He is also dedicated to musical education, having recorded instructional videos on harmonica techniques.

Discography

• Blues Etc (2001)
• Gréia (2005)
• Gréia ao vivo - Conexão Nordeste (2006)
• Ar Puro (2007)
• Hello Pretty Baby (2008)
• Encruzilhada (2011)
• Encruzilhada Ao Vivo (2013)
• Jefferson Gonçalves & Hampate – Dakar Rio (2014)
• 25 Anos de Carreira (2015)
• Explosion Blues (2017)
• Paisagens Sonoras (2018)
• The Real Blues Vol. 2 (2020)
• The Real Blues (2020)
• Ao Vivo no Teatro da UFF (2020)
• The Real Blues (Ao Vivo) (2023)
• Assmar, Gonçalves & Andrade (2024)
• Work Hard (2025)