Murilo Alvarenga

Origin

Itaúna, MG

Also known as

Alvarenga

Years Active

1923–1978

Genres

sertanejo, música caipira, humor

Instruments

voz

Biography

Murilo Alvarenga, known artistically as Alvarenga, was a multifaceted Brazilian artist who left his mark in the circus, music, radio, theater, cinema, and television. Born in Itaúna, Minas Gerais, on May 22, 1912, he began his artistic career at an early age, at 11, as a trapeze artist and tango singer at Circo Pinheiro. His versatility led him to explore various facets of entertainment throughout his life.

Alvarenga is best remembered for having been a permanent member of the famous duo "Alvarenga and Ranchinho," which had different lineups throughout its trajectory. The first partnership was with Diésis dos Anjos Gaia, the first "Ranchinho," with whom he formed the duo in 1933. Later, his half-brother, Delamare de Abreu, also acted as "Ranchinho" in sporadic replacements. The longest-lasting and best-known lineup was with Homero de Souza Campos, who became the "second Ranchinho," with whom Alvarenga worked until the year of his passing in 1978. In addition, Alvarenga also formed the duo "Alvarenga and Bentinho" with José Vosno Filho, which stood out at Cassino da Urca.

The duos formed by Alvarenga, especially "Alvarenga and Ranchinho," achieved great popularity in Brazil, being nicknamed the "Millionaires of Laughter." Their work on radio and in cinema, featuring parodies and political satires, earned them both success and persecution. Despite their popular style, which was at times criticized by intellectuals of the era, Alvarenga and his partners consolidated an important legacy in Brazilian music and humor, influencing generations and making their presence felt across various media.

Discography

• Chapadão do Bugre (Trilha Sonora Minissérie) (1988)