MPB-4
- Origin
- Niterói, RJ
- Years active
- 1965–present
- Genres
- samba, MPB, Latin pop, Latin music, Latin jazz, jazz, bossa nova
Biography
MPB-4, an acronym for Música Popular Brasileira 4, is a highly influential vocal and instrumental group formed in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, in 1965. Widely regarded as one of Brazil's premier vocal interpretation groups, MPB-4 has consistently focused on MPB and samba, prioritizing artistic integrity over commercial success. The group's journey began when its members met through the Centro Popular de Cultura (CPC) affiliated with the União Nacional dos Estudantes (UNE). Initially known as Quarteto do CPC, they adopted the name MPB-4 after the 1964 Brazilian coup d'état.
Throughout their career, MPB-4 has been celebrated for their sophisticated lyrics, melodies, and harmonies, often incorporating social commentary into their music, especially during the period of military dictatorship in Brazil. They have frequently collaborated with prominent Brazilian artists such as Quarteto em Cy, Toquinho, and Chico Buarque, with whom they recorded the iconic song "Roda Viva" in 1967. Their partnership with Chico Buarque was particularly significant, lasting through the mid-1970s. MPB-4 has also lent their voices to Disney animated films, including "The Jungle Book" and "Dumbo."
MPB-4 has received numerous accolades, including the Sharp prize for best MPB group in 1987, 1989, and 1995. In 2001, they celebrated 36 years of career with the same formation, a feat recognized by the Brazilian edition of the Guinness Book of Records. Despite the passing of founding members Ruy Faria and Magro, the group has continued to record and perform, with current members including Aquiles Reis, Dalmo Medeiros, Miltinho, and Paulo Malaguti Pauleira. In 2024-2025, MPB-4 is celebrating 60 years of career with a commemorative album featuring collaborations with many artists who have marked their six decades, such as Chico Buarque and Milton Nascimento.