Marquinhos Sensação

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Also known as

Marcos Cesar De Souza, Marquinhos, Marquynhos Sensacao

Years Active

1986–presente

Genres

samba, pagode, MPB

Biography

Marcos Cesar de Souza, known artistically as Marquinhos Sensação, is a renowned Brazilian singer and songwriter, born in São Paulo, SP, on April 28, 1966. His musical career is deeply rooted in samba and pagode, genres that established him as one of the most important voices in the Brazilian music scene. Since childhood, influenced by his musician grandfather, Marquinhos Sensação absorbed elements of sertanejo music, MPB and, of course, samba, shaping his unique artistic identity.

His professional trajectory began in bars, restaurants and samba circles in the northern zone of São Paulo. A crucial moment in his career was the invitation to perform alongside Jorge Aragão, a samba icon, which propelled him to move forward. Later, Marquinhos Sensação joined Grupo Sensação, formed in the mid-1980s at the headquarters of the Camisa Verde e Branco samba school. With the group, he recorded 13 albums, undertook 11 national tours and landed hits like "Se o Samba Começar", a composition that became an anthem in all samba circles. Grupo Sensação is considered one of the biggest pagode phenomena of the 90s, alongside names like Soweto and Exaltasamba.

After a successful career with Grupo Sensação, Marquinhos Sensação chose to pursue a solo career about 15 years ago, but maintains strong ties with his former bandmates and professional friends. He is known for his striking voice and for his ability as an interpreter, being frequently invited for special guest appearances on albums by other renowned artists, such as Fundo de Quintal, Leci Brandão, Reinaldo and Almir Guineto. Currently, Marquinhos Sensação remains active in music, with projects like "Pintando o Samba de Prateado", a tribute to songwriter Wilson Prateado, celebrating his more than 35 years of partnership and career.

Discography

• Marquinhos Sensação 30 Anos, Pt. 1 (Ao Vivo) (2019)
• Marquinhos Sensação no Estúdio Showlivre (Ao Vivo) (2020)
• Do Velho ao Novo (2025)
• Ao vivo na Galeria M3 (2025)