Leonel Azevedo

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Also known as

Leonel de Azevedo

Years Active

1930–1970

Genres

samba, waltz, choro, march

Instruments

acoustic guitar, piano, vocals

Biography

Leonel Azevedo was a Brazilian acoustic guitarist, singer, and songwriter, born in Rio de Janeiro on August 12, 1908. His musical career began in 1930, when he composed his first song, "Chora Coração", which, although never recorded, was performed by him on Rádio Eldorado. In 1935, after passing an audition at Rádio Philips, he was invited to sing on the show "Horas do Outro Mundo", where he met songwriter J. Cascata, with whom he established a highly successful partnership.

The partnership with J. Cascata yielded several songs that became hits in the voices of renowned artists of the era, such as Orlando Silva, Nelson Gonçalves, and Odete Amaral. Among the hits are "Lábios que Beijei", "Um Juramento Falso", and "Não pago o bonde". The waltz "Lábios que Beijei", in particular, is remembered for its innovative orchestration, created by Radamés Gnattali, which influenced the Brazilian romantic repertoire.

In addition to his compositions, Leonel Azevedo also worked as an acoustic guitarist and singer, establishing himself as an important figure in Brazilian popular music, especially on the radio. His work, which spanned genres such as samba, waltz, and choro, continued to be re-recorded and remembered in the following decades. Leonel Azevedo passed away on October 16, 1980, in Rio de Janeiro, and was honored by the city's mayor's office, which named a municipal school after him on Ilha do Governador.

Discography

• Estórias de Amor Vol. 2