Mestre Jackson

Origin

Salvador, BA

Years active

1970s

Genres

samba-reggae, afro-brazilian, axé music, samba de roda, samba duro, pagode, partido alto

Instruments

percussion, surdo, repique, timbau, caixa, marcação, pandeiro, birimbal, xequeré, congas

Biography

Mestre Jackson is a highly respected percussionist and educator from Bahia, Brazil, widely recognized as a pioneer of "Samba-Reggae." He began his musical journey in the 1970s, participating in major carnival blocks in Salvador. His career took a significant turn in 1979 when he joined Olodum as a rhythmist, eventually becoming the second conductor of the band alongside Maestro Neguinho do Samba. During his time with Olodum, he was instrumental in introducing the "Merengue" beat, which contributed to many of the group's musical successes and was part of recordings with international artists like Paul Simon and Michael Jackson.

In 1990, Mestre Jackson founded "Raízes do Pelô," the first percussion group formed outside of an Afro-Brazilian block. This initiative paved the way for numerous percussion groups and bands worldwide. Raízes do Pelô released two albums, with one being reissued in the United States and Europe. He has also collaborated with a wide array of renowned Brazilian artists, including Daniela Mercury, Elba Ramalho, Gilberto Gil, Caetano Veloso, and Gal Costa, with whom he toured extensively. His musical contributions have been pivotal in shaping the sound of modern Bahian music, particularly the "Axé Music" genre.

Currently, Mestre Jackson dedicates his time to music education, working with social institutions to help rehabilitate adolescents in correctional facilities and those at social risk. He also continues to be involved with groups like "Barbozada" and "Tambores do Pelô," exploring diverse rhythms from Salvador's Pelourinho district and nurturing new percussion talents. His legacy is not only in his musical innovations but also in his commitment to social change through art and culture.