Milionário

Origin

Monte Santo de Minas, MG

Also known as

Romeu Januário de Matos, Tubarão

Years active

1970

Genres

sertanejo

Instruments

vocals

Biography

Romeu Januário de Matos, known by his stage name Milionário, is a prominent Brazilian sertanejo singer born in Monte Santo de Minas. Widely recognized as "O Garganta de Ouro" (The Golden Throat), he rose to fame for his powerful voice and distinct interpretive style. His career reached legendary status through his historic partnership with José Rico, forming the legendary duo Milionário & José Rico in the 1970s and selling millions of records over decades.

Throughout his extensive career, Milionário also collaborated with other notable figures in the sertanejo genre, including Mathias from Matogrosso & Mathias, Robertinho, and later Marciano after the passing of his original partner. His musical journey further expanded when he teamed up with Moysés Rico, the son of his late longtime partner José Rico. Alongside contemporaries like João Mineiro, Milionário helped shape the landscape of traditional Brazilian country music.

Beyond his recordings and cinematic ventures, Milionário remains an enduring icon of sertanejo music. His contributions have left an indelible mark on Brazilian culture, celebrating rural life, love, and everyday struggles through timeless melodies. He continues to be celebrated as a cornerstone of the genre's history.