Momo

Origin

Belo Horizonte, MG

Also known as

Marcelo Elisio Vianna Frota

Years Active

1998

Genres

MPB, tropicalia, psychedelic, afrobeat, jazz

Instruments

voice, acoustic guitar, electric guitar

Biography

Marcelo Elisio Vianna Frota, artistically known as Momo, is a Brazilian singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist born in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, on February 17, 1979. His musical journey began in 1998, and his work is marked by a rich diversity of influences, reflecting a life shaped by experiences in different countries, including Angola, the United States, Spain, and Portugal. This transcultural background manifests in his music, which ranges across genres such as MPB, tropicalia, psychedelic, afrobeat, and jazz.

Momo was part of the original lineup of the band Fino Coletivo in 2005, but left the group in 2008 to pursue a solo career. His debut album, "A Estética do Rabisco", released in 2006, was acclaimed by national and international critics, being compared to the northeastern psychedelia of the 70s by artists like Geraldo Azevedo and Zé Ramalho. Throughout his career, he has released several acclaimed albums, such as "Buscador", "Serenade of a Sailor", "Cadafalso", "I Was Told to Be Quiet", and "Voá", the latter produced by Marcelo Camelo. His music has been recognized by icons like David Byrne and Patti Smith, and he has participated in important projects such as "A Tribute to Caetano Veloso".

Currently residing in Lisbon, Portugal, Momo continues to expand the borders of contemporary Brazilian music. His most recent work, "Gira" (2024), was highlighted on lists of the best world music albums. Momo's work is characterized by a sound that blends nostalgia and innovation, with songs sung in Portuguese and English, consolidating him as an artist who transcends geographical and stylistic barriers, while maintaining a strong connection to his Brazilian roots.

Discography

• The Birth Of Dar (2001)
• Oi Va Voi & Momo – Roots & Harmony (2001)
• Jah Wobble & Momo – Maghrebi Jazz (2018)