Liniker
- Origin
- Araraquara, SP
- Years active
- 2015
- Genres
- soul, black music, MPB, pop, samba-rock
- Instruments
- vocals
Biography
Liniker is a prominent Brazilian singer, songwriter, actress, and visual artist who rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the band Liniker e os Caramelows. Born into a musical family in Araraquara, she was named after the English footballer Gary Lineker and grew up immersed in the sounds of samba and soul. Although she discovered her vocal talent early on, she initially pursued theater before launching her music career in 2015. Her early work with the EP Cru and the hit single "Zero" quickly gained international attention for its fusion of black music and Brazilian pop elements.\n\nTransitioning to a solo career in 2021, Liniker released the critically acclaimed album Indigo Borboleta Anil, which featured collaborations with legendary musicians such as Milton Nascimento. In 2022, she made history as the first trans woman to win a Latin Grammy, securing the award for Best MPB Album. Her subsequent work, including the 2024 album Caju, has further solidified her status as a cultural icon, leading to her induction into the Brazilian Academy of Culture, where she occupies the seat formerly held by the legendary Elza Soares. Known for her powerful voice often compared to Tim Maia, Liniker remains a vital force in contemporary Brazilian music and a trailblazer for transgender visibility in the arts.