Mococa

Origin

Mococa, SP

Years active

1961–presente

Genres

sertanejo, traditional sertaneja music

Biography

João Leôncio, artistically known as Mococa, was born on March 29, 1939, in the city of Mococa, in the interior of São Paulo, but was registered in Arceburgo, Minas Gerais. From a young age, he showed an aptitude for music, forming the duo "Canhoto & Garotinho" and performing on Rádio Clube de Mococa until he was 20 years old. In 1961, he moved to São Paulo and began a new artistic phase, forming a duo with Mouraí and recording double 7-inch EPs. Later, in 1968, he teamed up with João Maurício de Oliveira, forming the duo Mococa e Moraci, with whom he recorded 33 LPs over 17 years, charting hits such as "O Grande Milagre" and "O Céu Chorou Por Mim".

Following the passing of Moraci in 1985, Mococa found in José Plínio Trasferetti, known as Paraíso, the ideal partner to continue his career. The duo Mococa & Paraíso was formed in 1986 and, since then, has stood out in the traditional sertaneja music scene. They have released several works on CDs and DVDs, many featuring special appearances by renowned artists of the genre. The duo is known for performing songs that portray daily rural life, work, and family values, without leaving aside romanticism in their lyrics.

Mococa and Paraíso have established themselves as a reference in sertaneja music, maintaining their connection to their roots while adapting to new technologies and digital platforms to reach different generations. Their hits include "Orelhão Azul", "Saco de Ouro", "Os Homens Não Devem Chorar", and "O Sinuelo". The duo remains active, performing shows all over Brazil and making their repertoire available on digital platforms, reaffirming the strength and longevity of their musical work.