João Brasil

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Also known as

J Brasil

Years active

2003

Genres

mashup, electronic, funk carioca, pop, brega

Instruments

mpc, sampler, synthesizer, vocals

Biography

João Henrique Martins Rodrigues, widely known as João Brasil, is a DJ, singer, songwriter, and music producer from Rio de Janeiro who rose to prominence starting in 2007 for his innovative work in the mashup scene and original music. With a degree in advertising from Rio de Janeiro, he expanded his musical education at the Berklee College of Music in the United States and completed a master's degree in design for alternative media at Middlesex University in London. Throughout his career, he gained national recognition by performing on television shows and major festivals, as well as scoring important soundtracks, such as the opening of the 2016 Summer Paralympics and editions of the Copacabana New Year's Eve celebration.

The artist cemented his name by blending diverse musical references, such as funk carioca, bossa nova, brega, and electronic elements, live using tools like the MPC and alternative controllers. Among his most impactful projects are the ambitious "365 Mashups" and the international megahit "Michael Douglas," released in 2016, which achieved massive acclaim to the point of being celebrated by the honored actor himself. João Brasil has also collaborated with and produced various names in national and international music, building an eclectic discography that moves between solo albums, experimental EPs, and striking remixes for artists like Cansei de Ser Sexy, Lucas Santtana, and Letrux.

His career is marked by a fluid transition between club undergrounds and large stages, having been part of side projects such as the experimental duo Taksi alongside Domenico Lancellotti and maintaining partnerships with icons like Gretchen and Fatboy Slim. Recognized by figures such as Nelson Motta and Marcos Mion for his inventive and irreverent talent, he remains active in music production, the research of urban sounds, and the dissemination of funk history through audiovisual initiatives.